Griffin debuts iVault aluminum case for iPod shuffle

Griffin Technology today announced the iVault aluminum case for the iPod shuffle. Griffin, in collaboration with designer Greg Gutierrez, has created a "stunning enclosure that incorporates maximum protection with an elegant design. Machined entirely out of aluminum, the iVault safely encloses your iPod Shuffle, while still allowing total access to the control wheel, audio jack, on switch, USB port, and LED. The front and back halves of the case are joined together by 4 small screws, so your iPod Shuffle is guaranteed to be secure. Lightweight yet strong, the iVault and the iPod Shuffle together weigh less than 1.5 ounces." The $30 case is expected to begin shipping in May in four distinctive colors: silver, blue, red and purple. Pre-orders are available now.

Hilton's iPod-ready alarm clock, virtual download

Hilton has announced its Hilton Family Virtual Clock, a virtual (desktop) replica of its new in-hotel alarm clocks that offers an audio input for users to attach their iPod or other MP3 player. The new Hilton Family clock features an easy-to-set alarm and four pre-set music selection buttons; it will be available in Hilton line of hotels, while a version without the audio input will be availalbe in Hampton Inn rooms. The online version is available for Mac OS X and offers several options for setting a personal alarm. The clock reminds users of its four-phase sweepstakes that offers 100 winners of a $10 iTunes Gift Certificate (Phase 1), 100 winners of a Hilton Family Alarm Clock with MP3 jack (Phase 2), 250 winners of Apple's iPod mini (Phase 3), and 10 winners of a Two Night Stay at a participating Hilton Family hotel (Phase 4).