Belkin offers existing products that work with Nano

Belkin today announced that its existing line of iPod accessories includes devices that are both compatible with the iPod nano and are available in both black and white colors, such as the TuneCast II and Auto Kit for iPod. The TuneCast II ($40, shown at right) for example, an FM transmitter that plays music from MP3 players such as Apple's iPod through FM radio waves, plugs into the Nano's headphone jack. Other compatible products include the Cassette adapter ($20), Auto power cord for iPod with Dock connector ($20), and a variety of mini-stereo audio cables. Other new and to-be-announced accessories for Nano will be available starting in October.

iPod tops CNET's Top 10 products of the past 10 years

Apple's iPod was the top pick by CNET's editors in its Top 10 Product list, which included products from the past 10 years. The iPod placed above TiVo and Google. Criteria was based on the most wide-ranging acceptance of products: aside from being the top pick of the list, the iPod is one of only a handful of products to get a 9 rating from CNET. "Even if you devoutly believe other music players have better features now, you have to acknowledge that iPod is still the king." Apple's iMac also placed No. 8 on the list, making Apple the only company to place two of its products in the list.

European Harman Kardon Drive + Play...

Harman Kardon at Apple Expo unveiled the European version of Harman Kardon Drive + Play, an integrated iPod docking system specifically designed for automotive use. Unlike competing products on the market, Drive + Play provides "complete iPod control," including full browsing and playlist handling capability, while minimizing distractions for drivers. Drive + Play charges the iPod when docked, displays customized user menus such as playlists and user preferences, and shuts itself off when not in use. The European version of Drive + Play will ship in November 2005.

Belkin debuts TuneBase for iPod shuffle

Belkin today launched its TuneBase for the iPod shuffle. The TuneBase features an innovative, flexible neck that easily positions your iPod shuffle. While mounted, the TuneBase powers and charges simultaneously the iPod shuffle. The TuneBase also features a 3.5mm line-out for use with the specially designed Belkin Cassette Adapter (included) or TuneCast II FM Transmitter (not included) for high-quality audio through any car stereo. It also features a custom-designed swivel-cradle, offers a grey/white duotone color scheme, offers "plug-and-play" convenience, and mounts the Shuffle through the USB connector. It is expected to ship in North America in November 2005 for $40. Belkin includes a lifetime warranty with the product.

JBL On Tour Black edition matches black Nano, U2 iPod

Harman Multimedia at Apple Expo announced the introduction of JBL On Tour Black, a portable audio system designed to meet the demands of students, professionals and consumers on the go. The portable audio system utilizes a stereo pair of Odyssey transducers and features six watts of total power. Slightly larger than an eyeglasses case and roughly the size of the new Sony PSP, JBL On Tour Black is the "ultimate addition to any MP3 player, personal CD player, laptop or desktop computer, portable games console or portable video player." The high gloss black of the JBL On Tour Black is "the perfect match" for the black iPod Nano and the U2 iPod. The JBL On Tour Black will be available from retailers in November.

Harman Multimedia unveils new iPod docking station

Harman Multimedia on Monday introduced JBL On Stage II, a desktop speaker station specifically designed for both the iPod and iPod mini. The company previewed the device at Apple Expo, which opens to the public tomorrow. The JBL On Stage II provides "rich sound" and "redefines the standard for iPod docking products." It delivers 12 watts of total power for "astonishing bass and clear, accurate sound." JBL On Stage II also provides power to charge the iPod even when the computer is off. The docking station also features a remote control that works from up to 50 feet away. Additional cables are included for connecting with other digital music player devices, CD players and laptop and desktop computers The JBL On Stage will be available in February 2006.

Harman Kardon debuts 'The Bridge' for iPods

Harman Kardon today introduced The Bridge, a unique iPod accessory that connects a compatible iPod to a range of special Harman Kardon The Bridge-ready AVR 40 Series audio/video receivers, The Bride, which does not require a power adapter, provides a direct audio and control link between the iPod and the receiver. "Elegantly designed to match Harman Kardon products, The Bridge enables a host of advanced iPod capabilities, such as displaying on-screen menus, on front panel display of AVR 40 Series, on TV or video display, providing operation of the iPod via the receiver's remote control and charging of the iPod." Harman Kardon's The Bridge will be available in October 2005 for €100.

iPod exec to speak at Digital Life exhibition

Apple's iPod product marketing chief, Greg Joswiak, is to appear in a panel discussion with other leading industry figures in the next month, according to Macworld UK. The panel will be part of the Digital Life exhibition, which begins October 14. Panelists will: "Demonstrate a number of hot new products and talk about the highlights of this year's holiday tech shopping season," the show organizers said. The panel also includes: HP executive vice president, Todd Bradley, Motorola's senior director of product operations James Burke; Adobe senior vice president of its digital imaging and video business unit, Bryan Lamkin and Netgear chairman and CEO Patrick Lo. Keynote presentations from Microsoft and Intel will also be featured at the conference.