Retailer says Bluetooth iPod is near

Rumors are flying once again that Apple will debut a Bluetooth iPod, and one U.K. retailer says the Cupertino-based company has been putting the finishing touches on just such a device. Stuff Magazine suspects that the iPod maker is set to unveil a host of accessories for its line of digital media players, with Bluetooth-enabled headphones being a primary candidate. A Bluetooth-enabled iPod would allow users to broadcast music through vehicle speakers without the need for plug-ins or FM transmitters, and may enable owners of the device to transfer tracks wirelessly between iPods. Sony Ericsson recently launched its W950i Walkman phone with the optional HBH-DS970s, a flash-based phone offering 4GB of storage and Bluetooth connectivity, which some industry watchers say is set to offer the iPod stiff competition. Apple will need to roll out a wireless-capable iPod to stay on top of mobile phone competitors, according to the report.

Waterfield's iPod Hi-Fi Speaker Case

Waterfield today announced its new travel play-through case for Apple's iPod Hi-Fi speaker system. The iPod Hi-Fi Speaker Case is fully padded, provides complete play-through functionality and has five pockets for all the iPod gear. A solid plate of impact-resistant plastic protects the front grill and speakers and a comfortable shoulder strap helps to lighten the load. The case is made from custom-designed and domestically produced ballistic nylon, high density foam, YKK locking zippers and durable metal hardware. The inside of the case is layered with a soft, scratch free liner. The case provides a chamber for the iPod Hi-Fi and additional pockets for the iPod and its accessories, including a front oval opening lets users play their music without having to take the speaker out of its case and a covered slot at the bottom for plugging in the power cable and the "audio in" jack. It will ship on April 18 for $150 and is available in black ballistic nylon with Lead, Taxi, or Blue Indium trim.