Logitech Pure-Fi iPhone

Wrapping up its introductions today, Logitech launched a pair of speaker docks that are some of the company's first specifically iPhone-compatible devices. The Pure-Fi Express Plus borrows the same omnidirectional sound technique used in the just-announced Z-5 to put out stereo audio in nearly all directions, creating a consistent sound field useful for outdoor gatherings or unusual placement. Appropriately, the Express Plus can also run entirely on battery and has its own handle for a quicker move from room to room.

The Express Plus works with all fourth-generation iPods, iPod minis, and later dockable Apple devices up to the very latest models and the iPhone 3G; an aux-in jack supports nearly all other portable media players. It surfaces in October for $100.

Logitech is also making its move into higher-end clock radio docks via the Pure-Fi Anytime. Apart from its new iPhone support, the AM/FM stereo also draws heavily upon motion sensing to simplify many tasks that would either require more light or awkward input. The backlight will only invoke when the user is close, guarding against having to turn on a nearby lamp; owners can also wave a hand over the Pure-Fi to trigger snooze mode rather than hit a button. A sometimes uncommon recessed dock design prevents users from hitting the iPhone or iPod in the morning.

Compatibility with Apple's hardware is the same with the Anytime as for the Express Plus, as is the October shipping timeframe and the $100 price point.

by MacNN Staff