DLO debuts DLO mini fm FM Radio...

Digital Lifestyle Outfitters today announced the DLO mini fm FM Radio and Headphone Amplifier for iPod mini. The DLO mini fm is a self-powered radio and volume amplifier that fits seamlessly onto the top of the iPod mini and lets users tune into their favorite stations for news, sports and weather. It also allows users to switch between radio and iPod mini mode with just the push of a button. In addition to adding FM radio capability to the iPod mini, the mini fm amplifies the iPod mini by boosting the volume capacity by over 25 percent. This improves the sound experience in noisy environments like an airplane, or while using a headphone splitter for two listeners.

Creative rolls out iPod shuffle-compatible speakers

Creative Technology unveiled the TravelDock 900, a new portable speaker system designed for flash-based digital music players such as Apple's iPod shuffle. The TravelDock 900 features "NeoTitanium micro drivers", a docking stereo plug, 32 hours of amplified music on four AAA batteries, and a compact, sturdy clamshell design. A DC power jack provides the ability to re-charge battery power, and power is automatically turned off when the lid is closed. The TravelDock 900 will ship for $130 with a travel pouch, two different stereo-to-stereo cables (.5m and three-pole to four-pole at .1m), and four AAA batteries. (Ship date not available.)

Otter ships OtterBox case for iPod shuffle

Otter Products today began shipping its latest waterproof, interactive case designed for Apple's iPod shuffle. The OtterBox Shuffle case, which was first announced in August, is ideal for outdoor activities because it's waterproof, dirt-proof, sand-proof, and drop-proof. A flexible rubber button on the front permits the use of all Shuffle functions, and a clear back panel allows visibility of shuffle playback position and battery check light. The OtterBox for iPod shuffle includes a removable neck lanyard for hands-free carrying and is available for $30.

Firm believes Apple should develop "iPhone"...

Research-investment firm Piper Jaffray has weighed in on the possibility of an Apple-branded phone, in light of the forthcoming iTunes-compatible "Rokr" phone from Motorola. "We question Apple's motive to partner with Motorola when they themselves are a hardware manufacturer." The firm believes that if the long-term threat to iPods is a phone/MP3 combo device, then "Apple should make its own iPod phone (iPhone), turning the threat into an opportunity." At this time, the firm is "not aware that Apple has plans to come out with an Apple-branded cell phone." However, if Apple is already planning such a device, it would likely take at least a year to bring to market, Senior Research Analyst Gene Munster says.

ezGear to offer ezSkin cases for iPod, Minis

ezGear today announced that it would manufacture ezSkin cases for the most current models of iPod and iPod minis. Made of high quality silicon, ezSkins have openings on the top for complete compatibility with FM transmitters, voice recorders and dozens of other iPod accessories as well as offer an opening on the bottom to offer access to the iPod dock connector. Each ezSkin comes with a neck strap, an integrated (removable) belt clip, and a clear ezShade screen protector, a clear plastic screen with rubber bumpers on each corner that fits over the screen of the iPod. ezSkins are available in in four semi-transparent colors: Sky Blue, Princess Pink, Lime Green, and Frost White as well as Onyx Black (opaque). The new ezSkins will be available at the end of September for $25.

Apple in talks to bring Sony artists to iTunes

Sony said Monday it was was in talks with Apple about offering its nearly 25,000 songs by Sony artists to iPod users, according to a report posted by Sify.com. Apple launched the iTunes Music Store for Japan in early August with nearly 1 million songs from 15 Japanese record labels, but without a few major labels, including Sony. Apple, which sold 1 million songs in just four days, has already had an impact on other services and is enjoying increasing marketshare within the region because of its popular iPod. "The two companies are locked in a fierce battle in the market for digital music players, with Apple enjoying the upper hand over the struggling Japanese electronics icon. Now the two companies could set aside their rivalries to allow iPod users here to access Sony's roster of Japanese artists. 'We are negotiating with Apple over the download business and hope to expand our customer base to iPod users,' said Yasuhi Ide, a spokesman for Sony Music Entertainment (Japan) Inc.