Apple's iPod licensing fee may backfire

Apple's Made for iPod licensing program may drive away some big-name manufacturers from producing iPod accessories. As noted earlier this year, Apple has notified companies that it will collect a 10 percent royalty fee for products that access the iPod port and may drive manufacturers such as Bose and Altec away from the iPod accessory market, as many believe the fee is much higher than comparable license fees, which are about 1-2 percent, according to Smarthouse: "The move will significantly impact iPod accessory manufacturers with some considering dropping accessories from their portfolio.... Dominique Water the head of Bose's Asia Pacific operations said "All Apple partners were told of the decision some weeks ago. This is a massive licence fee which will not sit comfortable with many partners. Bose is not happy as the proposed fee is excessive by any standards." The report also notes that Bose is calling for a single standard to connect accessories to any (Windows-based) MP3 portable player.

Marware debuts new cases, accessories for iPod nano...

Marware today introduced its new iPod nano lineup, which features new, unique cases that complement the Nano’s unique styling as well as several other accessories. The Sportsuit Convertible (pictured at right), Marware’s flagship sports case, has been completely redesigned: made of revolutionary orca-skin neoprene, the new Convertible offers maximum protection without adding bulk. It features a revolutionary side-opening lid, hand strap, and a redesigned armband that uses the patented Multidapt clip system. It is available in black, blue, or silver for $30. Other new cases include the Sportsuit Sleeve (black or blue, $20), a sporty neoprene case that features Orca-skin pocket that holds headphones as well as features a removable belt clip included. The company says that most of its new Nano products will be available by the end of October.