Apple, ABC offering marks major turning point...

Video content services, despite stiff competition from other sources, will become a leading-edge portion of all premium subscription services offered via the internet, and the recent deal between Apple and ABC marks a major turning point for video over the internet, according to In-Stat. The research firm predicts that by 2009, non-adult video content delivered as subscription or pay-per-download over the internet will have a worldwide retail value of $2.6 billion. "The video desires of most consumers will continue to be served by free-to-air broadcast TV, and by pay-TV services like cable TV and satellite, but a thriving premium video market will develop over the internet. Really Simple Syndication (RSS), audio podcasting, and upcoming video podcasting initiatives will certainly drive demand for lots more video on the internet." said Gerry Kaufhold, In-Stat analyst.

Analysts offer doubts about 5G iPod success

Some analysts are skeptical of the potential success of Apple's fifth-generation (5G) iPod with its video capabilities, some suggesting that the company risks identifying itself with a project that could flop, while the author of one article from The Christian Science Monitor posed the possibility that the gadget is simply "Steve Jobs' folly". "Uncertainty surrounding the level of demand for the product, the sources for compelling content, and its possible use to view pornography seems to leave more question marks than exclamation points." Randy Giusto, however, a follower pf mobile and consumer markets for IDC said "yes, it's the next step in the video evolution, it makes perfect sense to put certain types of videos with the [iPod] audio. It's a natural fit." Avi Greengart, principal analyst of mobile devices for Current Analysis said "the screen isn't large enough to be a real video iPod," but noted that the new device is "really not a video iPod -- it's an iPod with video."

Media offers reviews of new video iPod player...

Commenting on Apple's fifth-generation iPod, David Colker of latimes.com remarks that the device "is clearly superior to that of other hand-held video players," but says "it might be prudent to wait [...] especially if you already have an iPod." Colker cites the fact that video content currently available for the player is meager, but states that "the screen was so good, that after a half hour or so, the novelty wore off. Suddenly, I wasn't conscious of watching a tiny screen, or testing out a new toy. I was just watching the ladies of Wisteria Lane." David Pogue of The New York Times wrote about the new video-capable devices, saying that "they play back beautifully, with no network logo in the corner, no yearlong wait for the DVD, and no commercials." Pogue calls the device "deliciously thin," and also remarks on the screen size -- noting that "watching video on the tiny, 2.5-inch screen (320 by 240 pixels) is completely immersive." Pogue points to the lack of included accessories as a definite downfall.

Icewear, Prie Ambassador cases offered for 5G iPods

Tunewear today announced new cases for the fifth generation ("5G") video iPod. The new Icewear 5G series brings the Icewear line of high-density transparent silicone cases to the new iPod 5G digital music players. The Icewear series uses the same high density silicone found in diving masks which allows for both scratch protection and a clear view of the iPod 5G's original color. The caseo ofers access to all ports including the headphone jack, dock connector, hold switch and click wheel. It is available in both 30GB and 60GB models and includes Tunefilm protective coverings for the screen, clickwheel, and back. Icewear 5G will ship in November for $25. Tunewear also announced that it would produce a 5G version of its Prie Ambassador, a versatile genuine leather case that can be attached to a belt loop or strap, around your neck (strap not included), or as a protective case (by removing all the hooks, straps, and clips). The Prie Ambassador for iPod 5G will be available in November for $50.

Eminem iPod ad references return to Apple website

Several Apple fans point out the similarity between Apple's Eminem "silhouette" ad and a Lugz footwear spot from 2001. Ad Freak looks at the issue closer, and concludes, "First and foremost, the similarities between the Eminem/Apple spot and the Lugz spot are striking—nay, stunning—and worth taking a second to check out." After Apple premiered that ad at a special event where it unveiled new iPods, the company mysteriously pulled the link from its website. However, the ad was played on television over the weekend, and appears to be returning to the Apple home page. A small Eminem icon has been added to the “TV ads” section, but it still directs users to the ad featuring U2.