Compiled by Charles Moore
and edited by Dan Knight
- 2006.05.18
This Week's iPod News
Steve Ballmer said that most of the music on iPods was pirated,
and now Real's Rob Glaser is claiming that half the music on iPods
is stolen. Not on mine, that's for sure. Or most of yours, for that
matter. Anecdotal evidence points to about 80% of music on iPods
being ripped from your own CD collection and purchased from the
iTunes Music Store.
On the topic of illegal music, both Australia and the UK are in
the process of legalizing what millions are already doing - ripping
their CDs to their iPods. Three cheers for common sense!
iPhone rumors continue to make the rounds, and Apple has moved
their "Made for iPod" program from a percentage basis to a flat
fee. That should help makers of high-end iPod accessories while
making it less likely that those who sell cables and the like will
bother to participate in the program.
If you're looking for something different, check out the iWood
cases, the Tetran Luminous glow-in-the-dark cable winder, and
Bianco Dress, which wraps your iPod Hi-Fi in white leather - shades
of Elvis!
On a sad note, much as we've enjoyed tracking iPod developments
and sometimes commenting on them, we've determined that we're
losing money on The iPod News Review. With only 300-600 readers per
week, we can no longer justify the hours it takes to collect, edit,
check links, scale images, and publish the column.
Until the next time Apple releases an iPod or important iPod
accessory, we're going on hiatus. We will be back with special
reports.
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
Products
Software
News and Comment
Real Boss: Half the Music on iPods Stolen
The Register's Tony Smith reports:
"Real Networks CEO Rob Glaser has tacitly alleged that iPod
owners are music thieves, a claim that echoes the words of
Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. Both companies compete directly with
Apple's iTunes Music Store.
"Back in October 2004, Ballmer was reported to have said: 'The
most common format of music on an iPod is "stolen".' The comment
came not long after Microsoft launched its Windows Media-based
Plays For Sure initiative to align the various digital music
providers and player makers who have adopted the WMA DRM
format.
"Step forward to May 2006, and UK newspaper The Guardian quotes
Real's Glaser thus: 'About half the music on iPods is music
obtained illegitimately either from an illegal peer-to-peer
networks or from ripping friends' CDs, which is illegal.'
"Presumably he doesn't consider that iPod owners might have
ripped their own CDs. That's technically illegal too, in the UK at
least, but certainly not in the same league as downloading stuff
via P2P networks."
Editor's note: "Stealing" in this context is politically loaded
rhetoric. In some jurisdictions it may indeed technically be so,
but in Canada, for instance, downloading music for personal use
from P2P services has been declared legal by a 2005 court decision
(the Canadian government is being stridently lobbied by big music
interests to make it illegal), and ripping CDs that you own to
MP3/AAC format to play on your iPod is legal in Canada as well.
cm
The other editor's note: Ripping CDs that you own to MP3/AAC
format to play on your iPod is legal in the US as well. And while
this has been technically illegal in Australia and the UK, both
nations are looking into legalizing this common practice (see next
article). dk
Link:
Half the Music on iPods Stolen, Alleges Real Boss
Australia Legalizes Ripping Your CDs to Your
iPod
techdirt.com says:
"from the how-nice-of-them dept
"Just a week after the recording industry in the UK decided to
tell the government it was ok with letting people copy legally
purchased CDs to iPods, it appears the Australian government is
getting ready to do the same for citizens down under. We first
discussed this last year, but the government is preparing to change
copyright laws to make certain exceptions, including those covering
time shifting and format shifting. The law also allows exceptions
for parody and satire, which is a nice addition. Of course, at the
same time, the government felt the need to make certain concessions
to the industry - including stronger enforcement mechanisms and
larger fines for those caught file sharing...."
Link: Australia
Decides It's Okay for You to Copy Your CDs to Your iPod
Apple, Softbank Planning iPhone?
Reuters reports:
"Japanese Web and telecom conglomerate Softbank Corp. is working
with Apple Computer Inc. to develop mobile telephones with built-in
iPod music players, Nikkei reported on Friday.
"The music-playing phones can download songs from Apple's iTunes
Music Store, The Nihon Keizai Shimbun said in an article posted on
its Web site.
"A spokesman for Apple in Cupertino, California, was not
immediately available to comment."
Link: Apple,
Softbank Plan iPod Mobile Phones - Nikkei
Apple Adopts Flat 'Made for iPod' License
Fee
Smarthouse's David Richards reports:
"Apple has canned its controversial 'Made for Apple' [sic] iPod
accessories licensing program, replacing it with a flat fee program
that is easier for Apple to manage.
"The initial licensing program was based on Apple taking a
percentage of revenue from all products that connected to an Apple
17pin iPod connector. Originally Apple proposed a fee of 1.5% but
as the popularity of the iPod increased and sales moved into the
tens of millions Apple told organisations like Bose that they had
to pay up to 10% of revue back to Apple for being an official
partner of the 'Made for Apple' program.
"Instead, the program has been replaced with a flat $4 per unit
fee."
Link:
Apple Changes iPod License Fee
Mitsubishi Maker Teams with Apple for iPod
Support
DigiTimes' Shawn Chen and Adam Hwang report:
"China Motor, the Taiwan maker of Mitsubishi cars, is
cooperating with Apple Computer to integrate iPod use in car-use
audio systems for some of its car lines, the first such auto maker
in Taiwan to do so, according to industry sources."
Link: China Motor
Cooperates with Apple for Car-use iPod System (subscription
required)
Weekly iPod Giveaway Sends Church's Message to
Youths
The Arizona Republic's Lars Jacoby reports:
"Sometimes doing things a little differently than everyone else
is a good way to stand out from the crowd.
"At least that's what officials of the Interfaith Unity Church
Mesa hope.
"For the last five weeks, and for at least five more, someone
has left the church with something a little more than just the word
of gospel fresh in their mind, but also an iPod Shuffle to put
music in their ears."
Link:
Weekly iPod Giveaway Sends Church's Message to Youths
Products
iWood Wooden iPod Cases
PR: Here's
something special, or even exotic, for your iPod or nano
I used to make my living as a cabinetmaker, so any melding of
fine woodworking with high technology usually delights me.
And so it is with the iWood iPod cases carved out of blocks of
solid wood by Netherlands-based Miniot.com.
There are iWood models for both the iPod nano and the 5g
full-size iPod
Miniot.com says
that:
"Nothing matches the look and feel of nature. That's why we made
the iWood, with love and dedication, from the finest wood. No two
persons are alike, neither are two pieces of wood. But there's more
that makes your iWood nano unique: a monogram engraved on top. And
a message inside. To remind you of all that matters."
The iWood cases are carved with the greatest precision from a
single piece of wood... carefully selected... in a wonderful
patterns and warm colors in varieties such as maple, cherry, oak,
and walnut.
When closed, the
iWood cases accept headphone jacks up to 10mm, and with the cover
open you can access the sync connector without removing the
iPod.
Concealed hardened steel hinges and tiny magnetic catches keep
the iWood securely closed.
A monogram of your choice is engraved on top, and a personalized
two-line message inside.
Also available in
the iWood heritage series are very rare woods in small quantities
that are only enough to create two or three very special iWoods.
You can check them out on the iWoods heritage page and select the
exact wood you want. Types that may be offered include burled
walnut, padouk, olive wood, apple wood, zebrano, wenge,
pallisander, ebony, and on occasion even ancient, pre ice-age
Kauri.
Each iWood heritage is numbered and comes with a certificate.
heritage prices start at Euro175 and up depending upon rarity and
production effort to work the wood.
Like a good wine or whiskey, the iPod reflects your taste and
personality. Your iWood nano makes it even more personal, with a
monogram of choice engraved on two lines message inside the
lid.
iWood is discreet
and your iPod nano fits in snugly. When closed there's access only
for the headphone plug. When opened, the sync-connector is
revealed, so you never have to take the iPod out. in its iWood,
your iPod can easily be operated with one hand.
Each iWood comes in a black gift case.
iWood nano starts at Euro75
iWood 5g starts at Euro85
Link: Miniot
SportWrap Fits All iPods
PR: Whether you're
biking, jogging, walking or working out, SportWrap for iPod makes
it easy to take your tunes with you. SportWrap features a
moisture-resistant, play-through design and can be comfortably worn
on your upper arm or forearm.
An adjustable Velcro strap holds your iPod securely in place and
an elastic loop keeps excess earbud cord out of your way. Dual
openings accommodate the position of the headphone jack on the 3G,
4G iPod and iPod with video.
$29.95
This product is compatible with the following iPods:
iPod, iPod with video
- Soft neoprene provides a comfortable fit and keeps iPod
dry
- Play-through design offers protection for screen and Click
Wheel
- Adjustable Velcro strap secures SportWrap to almost any size
arm
- Elastic loop keeps excess earbud cord out of your way
SportWrap for iPod nano
Whether you're biking,
jogging, walking or working out, SportWrap for iPod nano makes it
easy to take your tunes with you. This dramatically slimmed-down
version of our popular SportWrap features a water-resistant,
play-through design and can be comfortably worn on your upper arm,
your forearm, or your wrist. SportWrap's two adjustable Velcro
straps keep your iPod nano securely in place, while its integrated
cleat keeps excess earphone cord out of your way.
$29.95
- Play-through design for full access to controls
- Compact size allows it to be worn on upper arm, forearm or
wrist
- 2 adjustable Velcro straps to fit almost any arm size
- Integrated cleat keeps excess earphone cord out of the way
SportWrap for iPod mini
The SportWrap iPod mini Armband is the only moisture resistant,
true sports armband for active iPod users. SportWrap is perfect for
biking, jogging, walking and working out. SportWrap can be worn on
either arm, adjusts to fit most arm sizes, and stores excess earbud
cord safely out of your way.
Quality Neoprene construction and a built-in moisture barrier
makes SportWrap water-resistant to help keep your iPod dry when
you're not. The built-in play through cover allows you to control
your iPod mini while it's in the SportWrap.
$29.95
- Perfect for biking, jogging, walking and working out
- Moisture barrier keeps your iPod dry
- Keeps excess earbud cord out of your way
- Play-through cover gives you access to controls
- Quality Neoprene maximizes comfort and fit
- Stays secure with super-strong Velcro strap
- Self-sealing headphone jack opening helps keep moisture
out
- Designed to use on left or right arm
- Comfortably fits 10" to 17" arm sizes
Link: SportWrap
Link: SportWrap
nano
Link: SportWrap
mini
Tetran Luminous Glow-in-the-Dark Cable
Winder for iPod
PR: The ever cute and extremely popular Tetran has a new
friend - "Tetran Luminous", the latest addition to the Tetran rage.
"Tetran Luminous" glows in the dark.
Along with the current Tetran series available in four fun
colors. You can now pick from Pink, Green, Yellow, Orange, or
Glow-In-The-Dark to match your style.
Tetran is a fun cable winder for your favorite iPod or MP3
player's earbud headphones. Just wind your cable around Tetran's
body and use Tetran's cute mouth as a holder for your earbuds. The
spikes keep Tetran from running away. There is a removable
ball-bearing style chain included for attaching Tetran to your belt
loop, cell phone strap or key ring.
Tetran is not only a fun earbud cable winder but can also be
used for a relaxing massage by squeezing Tetran in the palm of your
hand. Try applying Tetran's 23 rubber spikes to your neck,
shoulder, back, hands or feet to feel a warm tingling sensation
which eases away the stresses and strains of the day.
Link: Tetran
Luminous
FriendTech's iDea Home Dock Wireless Docking
Unit
PR: The Home Dock comes in 2 versions
which are wired or wireless; it is compatible with the entire iPod
line, PSP, MP3 player, and MP3 mobile phones - 4 platforms together
allowing brilliant playback.
- The first dock that supports the iPod, PSP, MP3 player and MP3
mobile phone - 4 platforms together, a smart and stylish "One for
All" design.
- The first dock with its Remote Control Unit that supports the
iPod "MENU", Click Wheel's "Scroll UP" and "Scroll Down" 3
functions remotely. Even the genuine iPod Remote Control Unit can
NOT do it.
- The only wireless dock that broadcasts music from the iPod, PSP
and MP3 player/ MP3 phone to the connected home/office stereo, and
send music wirelessly to multiple rooms' stereo and earphone
(w/receivers).
- The only wireless dock that supports the "Night Listening*"
mode - It playbacks iPod/PSP Audio and displays the iPod photo/
video on the connected Home Stereo and TV. (*Night Listening :
Because the Wireless Dock supports the Wireless Broadcast, you may
dim the TV and Hi-Fi volume to keep it quite outside, yet still
enjoy the music through the self-amplified Wireless HD-Audio
headset.)
- Enjoy the PSP games and movies with the sound broadcasting
through the home Hi-Fi stereo.
- Supports the Sony Walkman MP3 and Walkman Phone for sharing the
music wirelessly as well.
- The Wireless Hi-Fi Portable Receiver and the Remote Control
Unit are included in the package.*
Features:
- The first and the only dock for the iPod that displays the A/V
output, and the Wireless HD-Audio broadcasting.
- It displays the A/V output on the living room connected TV and
stereo, it broadcasts the High Definition (HD) Audio Wirelessly to
all other room's stereos throughout your house (a receiver is
needed for each).
- The only Dock that supports the Apple iPod (all dockable
versions), Sony PSP and Walkman Cell Phone 3 platforms on the same
dock for Power charging and Music playback. Buy one for all three,
and save!
- Sharing your favorite music with your family and friends in the
high definition and wireless way, setup is easy and simple.
- Provides the iPod and PSP with (1) Power Charge, (2) Audio
Playback via the connected Home Stereo, (3) Files Download (iPod
only), and (4) Video Playback via the connected TV (iPod photo,
Nano and Video versions only).
- As the most versatile iPod Dock in the world, the iDea Wireless
Dock delivers the S-video output (Composite Video also supported)
on the TV, and HD-Audio output (Crystal Clear sound quality, 100%
lossless Audio via the back panel Stereo output, or the 2.4 GHz
Wireless RF Transmitter).
- Supports the Dolby Digital 5.1 Surround Sound via the Hi-Fi
output and connected A/V amplifier.
- Wireless RF HD-Audio Transmitting and Broadcasting customized
for the iPod, with Cool skin design.
- Supports the Apple iPod (iPod, iPod mini, Photo, Nano &
iPod Video)
- Non-compression for high quality sound with delay time
0.5ms.
- Digital Audio with 44.1K sampling rate and 16-bit
resolution.
- Operating at 2.4 GHz ISM band with 8 selectable channels.
- Proper RF output power 10 dBm to reduce interference.
- -87 dBm receiving sensitivity, 45 dB channel rejection.
- Including the S-video and Audio/Video cables, Universal Power
Adapter (100~240V) and Remote Control Unit (for the iPod control
exclusively, IR based).
- Dimension: 150mm * 150mm * 28mm (+iPod connector 35mm
height)
- Application distance: up to 30 meters (L.O.S.) with perfect
reception.
- EAN Code: 4711671021688
- Night Listening : Because the Wireless Dock supports the
Wireless Broadcast, you may turn off the TV and Hi-Fi, to keep it
quite outside, yet you can still enjoy the music through the
Wireless HD-Audio headset. This feature is only available only in
the iDea Wireless Home Dock. No any other accessory in the iPod
world can match it
Link: iDea
Wireless Home Dock
Zap Introduces iZap Lithium Batteries for
iPods
PR: Advanced technology vehicle and energy pioneer Zap
(NYSE Arca:ZP) announced today the introduction of a new series of
lithium battery packs designed specifically to work with the
iPod.
Called iZap, the battery
accessories for the iPod are part of a new line of Zap Portable
Energy systems to power a wide range of mobile electronics. The
iZap's Portable Energy(TM) chargers and power packs are designed to
work in conjunction with the iPod, including the iPod mini, iPod
shuffle, iPod nano and the iPod with video.
"Our new iZap series of lithium battery packs are specifically
designed for the iPod - one of the most popular new consumer
electronics on the market," said Zap CEO Steve Schneider. "Part of
Zap's mission with advanced energy technologies is to continually
find new market applications for advanced batteries so that
economies of scales in battery manufacturing can be developed to
power full-size automobiles."
Zap says that the iZap designed for the iPod shuffle can extend
listening time up to 60 hours. Zap was in Silicon Valley recently
showcasing its lithium-battery systems at Maker Faire in San Mateo.
The new rechargeable power packs can power a wide range of mobile
electronics like cell phones, digital cameras, laptops and
more.
Zap Portable Energy helps solve the growing battery dilemma for
mobile electronics, offering a rechargeable source of power out in
the field or extending the battery life of your favorite electronic
device. The technology also reduces the need for disposable
batteries, which can be bulky, expensive and harmful to the
environment. The lithium-ion battery system can be recharged up to
1000 times and has up to four times the power of conventional
batteries. Each Zap Pack uses a smart microprocessor control system
that can power a variety of mobile electronic devices, including
handheld PCs, digital cameras, cellular phones, audio, DVD, compact
disk players or equivalent, video cameras, laptops and more.
Several models are available that offer the versatility to charge
DC electronics from 4.0 to 19.0 volts through either a DC or USB
port. Zap Portable Energy is now available for immediate
delivery.
Link: Zapworld.com
Free Protective iPod Cases from Contour
Design
PR: Contour Design, a market leader in Apple iPod hard
case accessories, is celebrating spring by offering free premium
protection to iPod nano owners. Contour is giving away 200 of their
crystal clear, ultra protective iSee nano cases on
www.contourcase.com. They are also offering 15% off all of their
sleek hardshell cases until May 23, 2006.
On the Go
with iSee nano
"It's that time of year when more people are active and outdoors
with their iPods. We think it's important that their iPod nanos
have the best protection out there, and that's the iSee nano," said
Andy Brown, company spokesperson. "Whether they're out walking,
running, hiking, or rock climbing, people want to know that their
iPod is snug and secure, protected from whatever abuse the world
hits them with." Contour Design also designs and manufactures
stylish, protective cases (including the Showcase Video) for the
full line of Apple iPods.
The 200 free iSee nanos are only available while supplies last,
but the 15% off sale will continue through May 23, 2006. When the
free iSee nanos are no longer available, iSee nanos will be
available at 15% until the end of the sale. One (1) Free case per
order, offers do not include shipping.
Link: ContourCase
Contour Design iSee nano Keeps NYC iPod
nano Owners Free from Worry
PR: Contour Design, a market leader in Apple iPod hard
case accessories, is offering premium protection to new iPod nano
owners by giving away their crystal clear iSee nano cases with the
purchase of a new iPod nano. The free iSee nanos are exclusively
available at Tekserve, J&R Music World, and Datavision, all in
New York City.
Tough Protection for a Tough Town
"New York is known for being a tough town, so iPod nanos need
the protection of the iSee nano right from the get-go," said
company spokesman Mike Jackle. "New iPod nano owners can simply
snap on the case and go, knowing that their iPod is protected from
the tough world of New York and beyond." The iSee nano provides
premium hardshell protection for the 1, 2, and 4 GB iPod nano.
It normally retails for $19.99. For iPod owners who don't have an
iPod nano, Contour Design's premium Showcase Video and iSee Video
cases are available for purchase at these and many other fine
retailers.
Availability and Pricing
The free iSee nanos will be available with the purchase of an
iPod nano while supplies last. The free cases will be available at
Tekserve, J&R, and Datavision.
Tekserve is located at 119 West
23rd Street and can be reached by phone at (212) 929-3645. J&R
Music World is at Park Row across from City Hall Park; phone number
is (212) 238-9000. Datavision is at 445 Fifth Avenue at 39th
Street; phone number is (212) 689-1111.
Link: ContourCase
iPod Sleeves with Exotic Materials and
Microfiber Inner Protection
PR: iStyles has
announced the launch of the iStyles Sleeves for the iPod Video and
iPod nano. Each sleeve is made from one of twenty-three exotic
materials that consist of high quality fabrics, leather, suede
leather, semi-microfibre synthetic leather, synthetic fur and
straw. The results are sleeves that look good and feel good.
The insides of each sleeve are lined with a microfiber cloth
that not only protects the iPod from scratches, but also polishes
and cleans the device as it is placed inside the sleeve. Each
sleeve also comes with an easily hidden handy loop that can be
attached to anything.
The sleeves are priced at US$9.99, and each sleeve design is
available in limited quantities.
Link: iStyles
sleeves
Bianco Dresses Up Your iPod Hi-Fi
PR: Apple's Hi-Fi
speaker system "iPod Hi-Fi" fills your room with powerful sound
which is nice, but wouldn't it be great if it was more elegant and
portable? TuneWear has come up with "Concerto Bianco" a uniquely
designed protective carrying case for the iPod Hi-Fi user who
insists on such original individuality.
Concerto Bianco places an emphasis on functional aspects as well
as sporting a high quality texture and motif. Concerto Bianco
includes a removable long strap that can attach to the carry
handles of the iPod Hi-Fi using a soft leather wrap so you can
carry the beautiful box anywhere around your house, office or take
it away on family vacation. With the Concerto Bianco case fitted,
you can put it in the trunk of your car with your other luggage and
don't have to worry about it getting knocked around on bumpy roads.
It is the ultimate in protective carrying cases that allows you to
enjoy the sound of iPod Hi-Fi anytime and anywhere.
Decorate with your iPod
Hi-Fi
Concerto Bianco was born for the user who insists on decorating
their favorite space with their own original style. With iPod Hi-Fi
clad in the elegant Concerto Bianco your living room looks and
sounds truly beautiful. As Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple Computer, would
say "it's bitchin'!"
Feature and Luxury
Concerto Bianco is crafted using the highest quality genuine
Italian nappa leather and a soft felt lining to achieved a
delicate, soft finish. Just like a fine leather jacket, Concerto
Bianco is designed for a smart fit of your iPod Hi-Fi and firmly
guards the iPod Hi-Fi surface against bumps and scratches.
Additionally the grille can be easily attached and removed without
the need to remove the Concerto Bianco.
$295
Link: Bianco Dress for
the iPod Hi-Fi
Software
2ndLap Lite iPod Stopwatch
PR: 2ndLap Lite saves stopwatch timers from your iPod
nano or 5th generation iPod ("with video") and puts them in a
simple calendar format.
iPod nano and Fifth Generation iPods include a Stopwatch feature
that is perfect for timing your exercise routine, recording your
jogging times or laps around the track. The iPod stores the date
and time for each timer, but will only store 5 at a time. 2ndLap
Lite saves these timers to your Mac and organizes them in a simple
calendar or list view.
Features in-depth
- Imports stopwatch timers from iPod nano and Fifth-generation
iPod ("with video").
- View timers by calendar or in list view.
- Store notes with each timer.
- Let 2ndLap Lite keep itself upgraded by its capable Check for
Updates function, which not only checks for updates, but also
installs them for you.
Out of shape? Running is one of the most effective forms of
exercise. The best way to stay motivated is to track your progress
over time. The full version of 2ndLap tracks your daily runs,
training goals, weather and physical conditions, shoes, tracks and
races. 2ndLap is still in development, and will import stopwatch
timers from 2ndLap Lite. 2ndLap Lite will continue to be available
free of charge.
New in version 0.7.0: First release (beta)
System requirements: Mac OS X 10.4 or later, iPod nano or
Fifth-generation iPod ("with video").
System support: PPC/Intel
Free
Link: 2ndLap Lite
