LuxPro showcases iPod shuffle knockoff: Super shuffle

LuxPro today debuted its own version of the iPod shuffle: the Super shuffle. The flash-based player not only trades on Apple's 'shuffle' brand, but also is a virtual knockoff of the iPod shuffle, offering a stunningly similar appearance, but more features. Taiwan-based LuxPro designed the device with the same white plastic and white headphones as Apple's iPod shuffle; it features USB 2.0 connectivity, Win/Mac compatibility, a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery (12-hour battery life), and support for MP3, MP3-VBR, WMA, WMA-DRM, WAV music formats. The music device also adds an FM radio tuner and voice recording functions. It is slightly larger than Apple's player, but features the same player interface (with additional buttons on the back of the device). It will be available in both 512MB and 1GB versions.

Success of music stores relies on compatible hardware...

Piper Jaffray Senior Research Analyst Gene Munster concludes "recent competitive rumblings from Sony and Yahoo! have created a buying window for shares of AAPL ahead of what we believe will be a solid March quarter and June guidance," highlighted by the emerging "halo" effect. The firm says that despite product introductions from Sony and Yahoo!, "Apple's competitive position is strong and in some segments may become even stronger."

PocketParty offers "micro" iPod speakers

PodGear has released PocketParty, a "micro speaker" solution for third and fourth generation iPods. It features 1 watt of stereo sound output from two tiny speakers, up to 10 hours of play from a single AA battery, a low weight of 38 grams. It does not affect the iPod's internal battery. Additionally, there is no extra adjustment for volume: it is controlled through the iPod. PodGear is based in the U.K., and currently has European distributors only. Pricing is not available online. Users who sign up with PodGear get a chance to win iPod accessories, including the PocketParty.