Media companies hope to cash in on Podcasting

Big media is determined not to repeat the mistake it made when it ignored blogging. The industry hopes to capitalize on podcasting -- which lets nearly anyone "broadcast" on the Internet. Podcasts are recorded audio files, distributed via Internet download. "Everyone from Disney to Newsweek to National Public Radio is now offering podcasts, and Apple Computer, Inc. last month made it a whole lot easier to find them and download them to iPods [...] While profits remain elusive, there's a bigger prize out there -- the company that manages to become the go-to Web site for podcasts could gain enough leverage to strike favorable deals with proven content providers, and generate cash by charging for subscriptions and advertising."

Apple to integrate iPod with Japanese cars?

Apple is working to integrate its iPod with Japanese cars, following successful iPod-ready stereo system upgrades from other car manufacturers. The company intends to begin working with Japanese automakers later this year to develop car audio systems that use iPod digital music players, according to a report by Nikkei. "A similar collaboration is already underway between Apple and automakers to develop iPod-based audio systems for cars sold in the U.S. BMW cars have steering wheels with built-in control buttons to operate iPods attached to them. Similar audio systems are being used on Mercedes-Benz models of DaimlerChrysler AG and Toyota's Scion car. Nissan is also selling cars with iPod stereos."

iPod, halo-effect behind Q3 earnings surprise...

Apple "extended its string of upside revenue and earnings surprises" in the third quarter, Needham & Company said today in a report for investors. The iPod's continuing popularity was a driving factor behind the better-than-expected earnings. " The two key drivers of the Apple story continued to work—the iPod and halo effect." iPod shipments rose to 6.16 million units, up 616% year-over-year. The iPod "continued to lure Windows users into the Macintosh fold." Mac unit shipments rose 35%, three times the PC market growth rate. "We’re raising our 2005 and 2006 earnings estimates, maintaining our buy rating and price target of $52."

Tivoli iSongBook portable music system for iPod

Tivoli Audio has introduced the iSongBook, a portable, weather-resistant music system for the iPod. Expected to be released later this year (near the December holidays), the radio/speaker system is white and gray and measures 6.2" x 11" x 2.2". The device, which offers high-fidelity stereo sound, is capable of running on both AC or DC power. The company says that the iSongBook is "built around our popular portable digital radio," offering a flip-down docking station to the unit's left, a detachable speaker to its right, and an backlit clock radio, alarm, and sleep timer. The company says that users can set the alarm to wake to either the iPod, radio, or tones. It includes a remote with Album and Playlist controls, integrated cable management, and a built-in charger for NiMH and NiCAD batteries. It will ship in the Holiday 2005 season for $330.

iMojo offers shuffle Sweats for iPod shuffle...

iMojo today announced the availability of shuffle Sweats: an armband for the iPod shuffle made from absorbent, machine washable cotton. The shuffle Sweat is designed to be worn on the forearm, offering "high performance and comfort in one simple design," according to the company. It comes with a cable wrap made from high-tensile strength silicon to keep extra headphone cord out of the way. "Unlike other armbands worn above the elbow, the iMojo shuffle Sweats don't create any friction against your body when running or exercising... They are also fully compatible with all T-shirts-- unlike other armbands, sleeves don't get in the way of the shuffle controls or the cable." It is available in black or white in 2-packs for $19.