11/21, 10:00pm
iPod touch may have nano camera after all
Apple's long rumored camera-equipped iPod touch may have a more definite release window, according to a purported source. A contact insists the device is back on track and that it would unusually launch outside of Apple's typical upgrade cycle, releasing in spring 2010. To make that goal, however, Apple would use the same 2-megapixel camera as in the iPod nano, which lacks autofocusing and low-light sensitivity.
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11/13, 4:45pm
Armband leaves room for Nike+ receiver
Marware has launched the Eco-Runner armband for the fifth-generation iPod nano. The case is said to be designed to mimic muscle fiber, and use ecologically-conscious material. In keeping with its running focus, extra space is provided to accommodate a Nike+ Sport Kit receiver.
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11/13, 4:10pm
Also enables Genius Mixes for Nike+iPod
Apple has posted a v1.0.2 firmware update for the fifth-generation iPod nano, which was launched this September. The firmware corrects a problem with podcast playback at different speeds. Newly enabled is the ability to use Genius Mixes in tandem with the Nike+iPod fitness add-on.
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11/05, 4:55pm
New cases and colors for iPhone 3GS, iPod nano 5G
SwitchEasy has extended its iPhone and iPod accessories with the CapsuleRebel M case for the iPhone 3G and 3GS, and the Cubes case for the fifth-gen iPod nano, which is now available in silver and metallic gold. The CapsuleRebel M is a revised version of the company’s earlier CapsuleRebel case, and features an UltraFrame hard protection system, with soft polymer for cushioning. The case is designed to protect the back and sides of an iPhone, and includes an ergonomic spine structure for better grip.
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11/04, 7:35pm
Books include text and images
TimeStream on Wednesday announced a new series of digital books, Notescasts, designed to be read from an iPod classic and iPod nano. The e-books are installed using the "Notes" feature available on a variety of iPods. Many of the books contain several hundred pages of text, along with color pictures.
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10/30, 4:15pm
Sport Grip, Sport Grip Deluxe guards iPod nano 5G
Marware has launched updated Sport Grip and Sport Grip Deluxe cases for the fifth-generation iPod nano. Both cases are made of silicone, and protect a Nano's back, bottom, top and sides from scrapes and scratches, while also reducing the likelihood of slipping. The basic Sport Grip comes with a clear screen protector and a microfiber cleaning cloth.
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10/23, 5:00pm
Outputs to TVs, stereos
TUNEWEAR has launched a new iPhone and iPod dock, the VisualDock. The unit is an AV-capable docking station with S-Video and line outputs. Special controls toggle simulated 3D sound, and alternating between charge or charge/sync modes when connected to a computer. The dock supports the iPhone 3G and 3GS, all iPod nanos, first- and second-generation Touches, the Classic and the older fifth-gen video iPod.
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10/20, 11:15am
PixelSkin, CandyShell, Fitted cases
Speck has announced three case updates, covering the fifth-generation iPod nano and the second- and third-generation iPod touches: these fall under PixelSkin, CandyShell and Fitted lines. The new PixelSkin is a soft silicone case designed for the Nano, and provides protection against bumps and scrapes. Grip curves prevent slipping, and openings are present for access to ports, controls and the camera. The case comes only in a black color at the moment, with a pricetag of $20.
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10/13, 5:25pm
Apple touch devices may get radio app
A rumor today claims that Apple is developing software to expose FM radio tuning for certain models of the iPhone and iPod touch. The software would likely have the same feature set as the current iPod nano and could tag songs to buy them in iTunes; the Internet connection would appropriately give the option of buying the song immediately instead of waiting for the next computer sync. Though not discussed by the source, the DVR-like live pause mode is a probable addition as well.
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09/22, 9:55am
Transparent and all-black models
SwitchEasy has introduced a new line of CapsuleThin cases for the iPod nano 5G, available in both UltraClear and UltraBlack varieties. Both are built from polycarbonate plastic, which provides protection against impacts and scratching. Openings for the microphone, camera and clickwheel are provided.
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09/21, 4:15pm
Cuts affect all models
Slightly less than two weeks after introducing new models, Apple has announced a series of price cuts to its older, refurbished iPods. An 8GB Touch is now $149, for instance, a drop of $40. A 16GB Touch is now $50 less at $199, and a 32GB model has been slashed in cost by $30, reaching $249.
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09/18, 6:25pm
Both silicone and clear plastic models
iLuv has launched its new line of cases for the new iPod nano and iPod touch. The new series features four types of Nano cases, the first of which is a silicon case with a flame pattern on the back. The second and third case designs both feature a clear plastic shell with various graphics of famous cityscapes or a video camera graphic on the back of the device. The last model utilizes an elastic armband and features a glow-in-the-dark frame for running at night.
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09/15, 4:25pm
TUNESHELL, ICEWEAR cases arrive
TUNEWEAR has launched a new collection of cases for the fifth generation iPod nano. The new Nano, released last week, has a camera, microphone and a larger-sized display, forcing the need for new case designs. TUNEWEAR has produced three, two of which have optional starter kits, and a revamped protective film.
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09/10, 4:40pm
Evidence from Apple's own website
The latest iPod nano may soon have an optional Nike heart rate monitor, a guide from Apple's website is said to indicate. The manual (PDF) includes a section called "Linking a Nike+iPod Compatible Remote or Heart Rate Monitor," specifically stating that the technology is only compatible with a fifth-gen Nano. Although the new player is already in stores, there is no sign of the quoted monitor.
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09/10, 1:45pm
Teardown revels processor, memory information
iFixit has dissected the new fifth generation iPod nano, showing the internal components. Apple introduced the Nano at its iPod press event held on Wednesday. The overall design appears to closely match the fourth-generation iPod nano, but with the new camera and a click-wheel that is not permanently affixed to the case as it was in the previous generation. The new video camera is video-only, as the size of the Nano reportedly limits the ability to integrate still-photo capable circuitry. The video camera captures H.264 640x480 video at 30 frames-per-second and captures AAC audio.
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09/10, 12:00pm
First post-event interview
The third-gen iPod touch has not been given a camera because Apple wants to think of it as a gaming device, according to company CEO Steve Jobs. Speaking with David Pogue of the New York Times, Jobs attributes the marketing shift to public demand. "We started to market it that way, and it just took off," he says. "And now what we really see is it’s the lowest-cost way to the App Store, and that’s the big draw."
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09/09, 7:35pm
Jobs on Kindle, iPod nano camera, health
Apple chief Steve Jobs today took shots at Amazon while also explaining some of the decisions behind the new new iPods and his own health. The co-founder is famous for having attacked Amazon's Kindle in the past but has now said that the e-book reader's main flaw its specialized role: its cost is too high for a single function, Jobs said. He moreover suggested to the Times that Amazon's refusal to provide definite numbers for Kindle sales was a sign it hasn't succeeded in the market.
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09/09, 2:35pm
Apple caves on key demand
Apple today announced the fifth-generation iPod nano, a radical revision of its compact media player. The device now has a built-in video camera, validating earlier rumors. Owners can record clips and sync them with iTunes, and then optionally upload them to YouTube. Video is rendered in 640x480 resolution at up to 30fps, with 15 real-time processing effects such as motion blur, film grain or a simulated x-ray look.
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09/09, 12:05pm
iPod touch absent from reseller part number list
A leaked list may reveal today's iPod capacity changes, or the lack thereof, according to a report. Said to have been supplied by "people familiar with the matter," the list details an assortment of iPod models and colors, as well as their onboard storage in gigabytes. Significant in the collection is a new iPod classic, with 160GB of memory instead of the current 120GB. Silver and black colors remain.
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09/09, 7:55am
iPod prices cut ahead of new models
Apple in a rare move this morning dropped the prices of most iPods at the online Apple Store ahead of today's special music event. The iPod touch has received the largest drop and now costs just $279 for a 32GB model, $249 for a 16GB model and $189 for an 8GB version. The iPod nano has received more modest drops from $199 to $149 for a 16GB edition and from $149 to $129 for 8GB versions. The iPod classic has also received a mild price cut to $229 from $249.
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09/09, 12:05am
Last-minute rumor suggests new Nano case material
On the eve of Apple's music-themed event, speculation regarding potential product announcements has lead to several fresh rumors. Daring Fireball blogger John Gruber mentions several claims suggesting the iPod nano might be updated with a redesigned case featuring "some sort of top-secret new material," adding to earlier reports of a camera upgrade.
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09/08, 3:15pm
5G iPod nano, 3G iPod touch cases at Best Buy
Best Buy on Tuesday inadvertently tipped off Apple's plans for tomorrow by posting entries for unreleased iPods. Belkin and Griffin cases for the fifth-generation iPod nano and third-generation iPod touch have appeared and support the notion that at least these two will be updated at Apple's special event on Wednesday. None of the releases immediately betray expected features like built-in cameras, though some include their own hand straps.
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09/04, 10:55am
Cases may foreshadow new iPods next week
Cases on display at the IFA expo in Berlin may further validate reports of new iPods being announced next week. One exhibitor at the event, Hama, is already showing cases claimed to be for a third-generation iPod touch, as well as a fifth-generation Nano. In both instances the cases appear to have cutouts for cameras.
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09/03, 8:55am
First time Sony leads in four years
Sony's Walkman players overtook Apple's iPods in market share for the first time in Japan in over four years, according to a study by BCN. Although Apple held the lead as recently as a month ago, a sudden surge in the Walkman's popularity and a corresponding drop in the iPod's has led to Sony just edging out Apple with 43 percent of the market versus 42.1 percent. The upset ends an unprecedented 241-week run for Apple, which took the top spot from Sony in early 2005.
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08/28, 5:15pm
Current iPods discontinued
All current iPods SKUs are being discontinued, sources in Apple's Authorized Reseller network claim. The sources note that even though stock is running low or empty in many cases, no new resupply shipments to third-party vendors have been scheduled. The dwindling numbers have been anticipated however, as an attempt by Apple to drain inventory in advance of new iPods, which should be announced in September.
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08/26, 3:05pm
iPod Sept 9 More Probable
Apple's rumored September 9th iPod event has gained credibility with a second purported confirmation on Wednesday afternoon. The tipsters speaking to AppleInsider claim that Apple has settled on the 9th after weeks of debate and that iPods will form the backbone of the introduction. It's now virtually certain that both the iPod nano and iPod touch will include cameras, but it's also said that the photo and possible video functions will be "just one piece" of the iPod updates.
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08/25, 4:55pm
FTN on iPod retail sales
In spite of recent Piper Jaffray observations, iPod sales actually did better than expected in July -- at least at retail, according to FTN Equity Capital Markets analyst Bill Fearnley Jr.. Having surveyed a collection of retailers across the US, Fearnley notes that 27 percent of them reported above-plan iPod sales for July, as compared to 7 percent for June, and a group of 13 percent who claimed below-anticipated results in May.
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08/24, 10:05am
iPod nano 4G 1.0.4 update
Apple has posted a minor software update for the fourth-generation iPod nano, bringing its firmware up to v1.0.4. The patch mainly addresses a problem with resulted in bad daylight savings settings, as well another which would cause Thai song information to be poorly displayed during disk-mode syncs. Other bugfixes are described as minor. The software is at present available only through iTunes' Update function.
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08/18, 8:55pm
Apple wins six patents
Apple has been granted six new patents, including an iChat filing and several submissions involving product design. The iChat video patent, titled “Digital image coding system having self-adjusting selection criteria for selecting a transform function," relates to coding digital video images and reducing loss of image information by adjusting parameters in the coding process.
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08/17, 9:15pm
Apple Event Sept 9 Rumor
Apple's rumored music event for September has been narrowed down to Wednesday the 9th, a source close to the company says. True to the company's past practices, the event is likely to be held at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in San Francisco and should focus on both Apple's now habitual iPod upgrades as well as a new version of iTunes that the All Things D tipster says may involve a "social element" like the Facebook, Last.fm and Twitter integration recently mentioned in a photo leak.
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08/16, 4:05pm
Blue Mics Mikey Review
With audio recording finally moving down into the home after years of being largely confined to studios, Blue Microphones has decided to follow suit by launching one of its first sub-$100 dedicated audio devices, the Mikey. But can piggybacking on an iPod provide a complete, properly high quality means of getting audio for a company used to providing the whole solution? We answer this in our Mikey review.
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08/14, 3:45pm
3G iPod Touch Prototype
(Updated with video) A prototype of a third-generation iPod touch has been spotted today courtesy of images sent by the satellite radio show Covino and Rich. The collection of shots by the Maxim-run program show an opened device that appears near-identical to the current model but with a camera at top center, matching numerous case leaks. It also shows a small hole next to the camera that likely represents a microphone for rumored movie recording.
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07/28, 3:55pm
iLuv iPod shuffle Adapter
iLuv today quickly followed Belkin by providing official details of its own remote adapter for the newer iPod shuffle. Already teased, the IEA15 gives any minijack earbud or headphone set the same controls as Apple's remote, both for click actions and for volume. The add-on is also confirmed to add full remote control to any other 2008 iPod as well as the iPhone 3GS.
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07/23, 2:25pm
iPod Camera Case Flurry
Several leaks today appear to all but confirm plans for Apple to introduce camera-equipped iPods with its next update. While small resellers have occasionally claimed to have cases before, multiple Chinese case manufacturers are now believed by Wired to have received concrete details for the dimensions of fifth-generation iPod nano and third-generation iPod touch units as early as May. Many are confident enough that they have already begun retooling their production lines to build the new cases.
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07/16, 11:45am
iLuv iEP515 and iEP315
iLuv catered to owners of Apple's latest handhelds today with two in-ear headphone sets. Both the higher-end iEP515 and basic iEP315 are primarily treated as upgrades for the iPhone 3GS with an in-line remote and microphone in addition to passive noise reduction through its design. Their controls are also supported on the third-generation iPod shuffle, second-generation iPod classic and fourth-generation iPod nano as well as the iPod touch, where the microphone also works.
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07/09, 10:20am
South Korea iPod recall
Apple has agreed to a recall of first-generation iPod nanos in South Korea, according to the Wall Street Journal. The company was asked to perform the recall in a June 25th motion by the Korean Agency for Technology and Standards, as a result of a number of complaints about batteries overheating or even exploding. "Although the overheating problem doesn't affect the batteries that are being used now in iPod nanos," Apple says in a KATS statement, "concerned customers can get a replacement battery."
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07/06, 1:00pm
Radiopaq Sound Jacket
Accessory maker Radiopaq has begun selling the Sound Jacket, an inline add-on for the fourth-generation iPod nano. The device performs automatic hardware equalization of a Nano's output, in theory compensating for distortion, as well as quality lost during file compression. Radiopaq claims that in some circumstances, quality should be improved by as much as 60 percent.
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07/06, 8:15am
iPod Camera Order Leak
Apple has been ordering enough camera sensors that every iPod except for the shuffle could have a camera with its next update, Asian sources claim. The American company is believed to be ordering cellphone-quality units worth about $10 but in too large numbers to simply apply to iPhone orders. Which models would get the update aren't specified by TechCrunch, but it's speculated that more than one iPod model would have to be covered given the sheer numbers.
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06/24, 10:30am
Mini Capsule Microphone
USBfever has launched the Mini Capsule Microphone, a new attachment designed for the second-generation iPod touch. The device offers plug-and-play capabilities, and works as both a microphone and a speaker. Power is supplied by an iPod's internal battery. While meant for Touches, the mic is also said to be compatible with the iPhone and iPhone 3G.
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05/26, 11:20am
iPhone China Model Rumor
Apple's upcoming revision to the iPhone could be the first to split the line into multiple versions based on the network, a supposed leak said on Tuesday. Rather than stick to a one-size-fits-all approach, the company is claimed by iLounge to be offering iPhones with different network speeds depending on the region. Those in the best-equipped countries will get iPhones with 7.2Mbps 3G; other countries would still have 3.6Mbps 3G, while a third phone would be specific to China.
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05/22, 12:45pm
Apple refurbs: Mac mini
Today's featured refurbished deals from Apple's online store include unibody MacBooks iPods, and accessories. First up is the 1.83GHz Mac mini for $419. Unibody MacBooks start at $1099 for the 2.0GHz model with 2GB of memory and 160GB hard drive. Current-generation 8GB iPod nanos are available for $99 and come in purple, blue, green, yellow, orange, silver, pink, black. First-generation iPod touch models are available in three configurations 8GB for $159, 16GB for $219 and 32GB for $279. Mac accessories include the wireless Mighty Mouse for $59, wireless keyboard for $69, AirPort Express Base station for $85 and AirPort Extreme for $135.
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05/15, 3:25pm
Camera on Touch and Nano?
Not one but two models of iPod should gain cameras in their next major update, claims the English edition of MacBidouille. A anonymous source for the website insists that both the Touch and the Nano will gain cameras, though aspects such as megapixel ratings or support for autofocus and flash remain uncertain. If identical to one strongly rumored for the next iPhone, the cameras could be rated at 3.2 megapixels.
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05/14, 7:05am
TruTune Fine Color Series
Radius Products has launched its TruTune Fine Color Series, a new set of colourful earphones that match Apple’s iPod nano 4G. The TruTune earphones are made from lightweight aluminum and feature a gold-plated stereo mini-plug. Each earphone offers small, medium or large silicone caps to help ensure they fit in the user’s ear. Colors which are currently available are designed to match the nine iPod nano 4G colors and include silver, black, violet, blue, green, yellow, orange, red and pink.
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05/12, 4:40pm
Apple refurbs: iPod nano
Currently Apple's online store is offering a wide selection of refurbished iPods including special limited time pricing on the current-generation 8GB iPod nanos of $99. Also available are 16GB models for $149. Both configurations come in black, blue, purple, orange, green, silver, yellow, and pink. One and two gigabyte iPod shuffles are priced at $39 and iPod touch models are available in 8GB ($179), 16GB ($259), and 32GB ($349) configurations while previous-generation options only include the 16GB model for $219, and the 32GB model for $279. Refurb. Apple accessories include the wireless Mighty Mouse for $59, the Wireless Keyboard for $69 and the Apple Time Capsule in 500GB and 1TB configurations for $239 and $399.
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05/06, 3:20pm
Apple gets 11 new patents
Apple has been granted 11 new patents from the US Patent and Trademark Office, all covering minor and/or existing technologies. These include the Mac OS X Dashboard, the design of the second-generation iPod nano, and an instant messaging-based file-sharing system. The Dashboard patent is dubbed User interface element with auxiliary function and was originally filed for in March 2006.
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04/21, 5:00pm
DealNN: iPods, cameras
DealNN deals today include iPods, digital cameras, wireless routers and more. Our featured deal today comes from Apples online store. For a limited time the refurbished 8GB iPod nano has been reduced by $30 from $129 to $99. The 16GB model has also been reduced by the same price margin to $149. Both models are available in black, pink, silver, orange, yellow, green, blue or purple.
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04/21, 3:50pm
Apple refurbs: $99 Nano
Apple's online store is offering a variety of refurbished iPods at reduced prices. Fore a limited time the 8GB iPod nano is available for only $99, which is $30 off their regular refurb. price. The 16GB model has also been reduced to $149. Both models are available in black, pink, silver, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple. First-generation iPod touch models are being offered starting at $159 for the 8GB and also include the 16GB model for $219 as well as the 32GB model for $279. Current-generation Touches are priced at $199 (8GB), $259 (16GB), and $349 (32GB). One and two gigabyte iPod shuffles are available in a wide array of current-generation and previous-generation colors for $39 and $59 respectively. The iPod classic is available in 80GB and 120GB capacities for $169 and $209 each.
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04/08, 10:50am
Apple solar, iPod patents
The US Patent and Trademark Office has granted Apple a collection of new patents, all revolving around the company's portable devices. Unusual amongst these is a patent for solar power circuitry, which could in theory be used to power iPods, iPhones and MacBooks when away from a wall socket. The patent was applied for in 2006 however, and has not been used in any commercial products.
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03/26, 4:40pm
Speck iPod cases ship
Speck is launching fitted hardshell cases for the iPod touch 2G and iPod nano 4G, expanding on the line that is already available for the iPhone 3G. The new cases are carrying patterned designs; some are colorful, others are designed with a refined look in mind. Among the cases are the BubbleSpotDot Aqua and CheeryPlum Purple for the iPod nano 4G and the Lovely Roger White/Pink, Lovely Roger Black/Grey and CheeryPlum Purple for the iPod touch 2G, all with textured vinyl around a hard shell.
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03/18, 11:25pm
ThumbTacks now shipping
Switcheasy has launched ThumbTacks, an ultra-small microphone for the iPod nano 4G and iPod touch 2G. The microphone attaches to the iPods's 3.5mm headphone jack and allows the media player to be used as a voice recorder. The ThumbTacks microphone is shaped like a thumbtack and measures 1.21 inches by .46 inches, using gold plating on the plug.
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