Plantronics offers multipurpose USB stereo headset

Plantronics today announced .Audio 85, a foldable, multipurpose USB-based stereo headset that provides high quality listening for the iPod and Apple's Macintosh computers. The company says it can be used with iChat and GarageBand, as well as online gaming, speech recognition and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) communication applications. "The .Audio 85 features advanced Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology for superior noise canceling in the microphone -- improving speech recognition accuracy and providing excellent voice transmission -- and brilliant full-range stereo sound. The QuickAdjust microphone boom ensures correct placement for speech applications and the inline volume and mute control enables effortless control." The .Audio 85 headset offers an adjustable headband, soft swivel-mounted ear cushions, and a leatherette carrying pouch; it is available for $80.

Speck ships HandSkin case for iPod

Speck Products today announced the HandSkin, an iPod case for the active or athletic iPod user. Featuring an adjustable, removable hand strap and ribbed 'grippy' shape, the HandSkin is easy-to-hold and offers sporty protection for both the clickwheel- and photo-based iPods (20GB, 30GB, 40GB and 60B). "Holding your iPod in your hand might feel easier and more natural than strapping on an armband or a waistpack. The HandSkin offers a comfortable and secure alternative to the sport cases already in stores." The HandSkin features screen and scroll wheel protection, removable hand strap, and a durable rubberized design. It is available in two color combinations: Black/Grey and Blue/Grey. The adjustable strap fits a wide range of hands comfortably and securely. It is available now for $35.

LA $1.2M iPod heist, Boston iPod thefts

LAPD Commercial Crimes Division detectives are looking into last Wednesday's multi-million dollar heist involving iPods. Authorities say one of the suspects involved entered a freight forwarding business at the eleven-hundred block of La Cienega and somehow used fraudulent means to take over the delivery of over 12,000 iPods. Investigators are seeking the public's help in identifying the suspect who was caught stealing the cargo on a surveillance camera. The value of the stolen MP3s is estimated at just over $2.5 million. Meanwhile, The Boston Globe says Apple's portable music players are so popular, and so valuable, that muggers have taken to "jacking up anybody wearing those distinctive white headphones."

iPods, music to remain key at Apple: Merrill Lynch...

After meeting with Apple management in California, Merrill Lynch concludes that music remains extremely important to Apple, despite slowing iPod growth and increasing Mac sales. Store surveys still show over 40 percent of Macs sold are to new Apple users. Still, "Apple doesn't want to get distracted from music," the investment firm said. "Only 5% of paid music is online today; the company says many youths will never buy a CD." Although moderately profitable, Apple "doesn't seem optimistic" that the iTunes Music Store will be a major profit contributor.

Rivet unveils new GRAB iPod, iPod mini cases...

Rivet today announced the availability of its Rivet GRAB for iPod, allowing users the freedom to attach their iPods wherever they want -- belt loop, backpack, purse and even a car dashboard. Rivet's "patented, aircraft-quality alloy" and stainless steel E-Clip one-touch release system lets users easily switch the way they wear their iPod. The GRAB attaches with the Rivet hook that provides "more versatility and much more style than a standard belt clip." Users can attach their iPod to virtually anything with a D-ring, loop or strap, and the iPod can be transferred to a car dashboard within seconds. Users can also show their style by wearing the iPod mini around their neck with the Rivet GRAB Lanyard.

DLO ships Flexible Dock for iPod shuffle

Digital Lifestyle Outfitters (DLO) today introduced the DLO Flexible Dock for iPod shuffle. The DLO Flexible Dock is a 7-inch adjustable USB dock that allows an iPod shuffle to connect to any computer, includin those with recessed or closely spaced USB ports. It also positions a USB port to easily charge and sync an iPod shuffle--without "having to reach around the back of the computer to do so. The DLO Flexible Dock frees up adjacent connectors that would otherwise be blocked by the extra-wide iPod shuffle. It plugs into any free USB port with a standard size plug, then bends out of the way and offers a super-handy connection port, providing easy in-and-out access for the shuffle." The DLO Flexible Dock for iPod shuffle is available immediately for $20.