ezGear rolls out ezShuffle Starter Kit

ezGear today announced the availability of its ezShuffle Starter Kit, offering an easy way to sync, charge, and protect an iPod shuffle. The kit includes an ezCharge Shuffle car charger, ezClip Shuffle belt clip, ezLink Shuffle extension kit, and an ezSkin Tankini protective case. The ezCharge Shuffle is a car charger that comes in iPod white which includes fuse protection and shielded cables. For increased reach, the ezLink Shuffle includes a 4-1/2 foot shielded cable along with a 3M command system desk clip. Protection is provided by the ezSkin Tankini, a silicon case that protects the iPod shuffle from dirt and scratches. The ezCassette enables the iPod shuffle to play music in an automobile (through the car's cassette deck), while the ezAudio Earphone Splitter allows users to easily share music. The ezShuffle Starter Kit is currently available for $30 from ezGear's website.

Apple launches Podcast Directory service in Taiwan

In an attempt to secure a larger market with music loving locals, Apple yesterday introduced its Podcasting Directory service for iPod users in Taiwan. Yeo Eng Yiong, Apple's product marketing manager for portables in the Asia-Pacific region yesterday stated that "we are working with 10 radio stations here and consumers will be able to listen to them over at iTunes within a month," and also noted that Apple may add more partners to the iTunes service at a later stage, according to Taipei Times. Earlier this year, just two days after iTunes podcasting was launched in the US, Apple announced that over one million iTunes customers subscribed to the iTunes Podcast Directory.

iTunes Japan sells albums for the wrong price

Apple Japan inadvertently sold albums on its newly opened iTunes Music Store for a fraction of the intended price. The Japanese iTunes store sold albums last week for just 50 yen each, instead of the intended 1,500-yen price. While the company has declined to comment on the matter, the sources said the low price at the iTunes Music Store was likely a mistake. The bargain was available last Thursday from the early morning to late afternoon, when it was possible to download Toshiba EMI albums at 50 yen each. Dozens of albums, including those by rock group RC Succession and singer Saori Yuki, sold at the price.

SwitchEasy debuts the smallest dock for iPod shuffle

SwitchEasy today announced PivotDock, the "smallest" docking station for the iPod shuffle. Featuring a positive-click 180 degree pivoting design, the PivotDock significantly reduces the spatial footprint of any docked iPod Shuffle, safely tucking it within a smaller space and minimizing the chances of accidental breakage. PivotDock also features a bright green LED status light that offers visual feedback. The PivotDock is compatible with Mac and PC, and supports USB 1.0/2.0 ports. PivotDocks can be ordered as part of a limited time "early bird online special" for $10, and will be available September 9 for $16 from SwitchEasy's website.

SendStation announces smartCharge for iPod shuffle

SendStation Systems today announced the smartCharge, its new all-in-one car charger for the iPod shuffle. "smartCharge not only has awesome good looks, it’s also the most compact car charger available." The single-piece, cable-free design weighs 30 grams (1.1 oz.), slips easily into virtually any pocket, and can thus be taken anywhere. A built-in 3.5 mm (1/8") industry-standard audio jack allows you to hook up any cassette adapter or use line-in sockets found on many car stereos without re- and disconnecting the iPod. It also enables users to tilt the shuffle when docked, providng convenient access to the Shuffle’s control buttons. An integrated LED displays power status and the easily replaceable fuse protects the attached iPod shuffle. Attaching a USB-iPod docking cable also allows users to charge fourth generation iPods and iPod minis. The charger will be available "soon". (Pricing not yet available.)