ezTrip Shuffle FM Transmitter ships

ezGear is shipping the ezTrip Shuffle FM Transmitter for Apple iPod Shuffle. The ezTrip offers an LCD display, access to all FM frequencies between 97.7 to 107.9, is small and compact, and includes a coiled cable to keep wires neat. The ezTrip draws its power from the car DC socket providing a stronger signal than other FM transmitters powered from the iPod as well as a clearer signal and reduced interference from local radio stations, according to the company. "We didn't want to develop "just" another FM transmitter. We made it better," said Charlie Bernstein, President of ezGear. "Based on our widely popular ezTrip for iPod technology, the ezTrip Shuffle continues our commitment to quality, features and value." The ezTrip Shuffle is available for $45.

MySpace sells videos, challenges iTunes

Apple's iTunes faces yet another rival in the rapidly expanding digital video market: this time from the most popular social networking Web, Rupert Murdoch's MySpace. According to Forbes, a new promotion will jumpstart the networking's site move to ecommerce as well as leverage its own video content. "Starting next Monday May 22, MySpace users will be able to download two free episodes of Fox's hypersonic-paced drama 24 from the "Have it your way" page, while a "social network" will be created around the show where users will interact with each other, create content and download the entire first and fifth seasons of the drama for $1.99 per episode." MySpace is the largest video site on the Web, with more video uploaded every day than other site, according to Fox Entertainment--that makes it the perfect distribution channel, according to its president. Last week, Fox and Apple announced iTunes would sell Fox TV shows via iTunes.

Creative sues Apple over iPod interface...

Creative has filed a complaint with the U.S. International Trade Commission requesting that the Commission institute an investigation of whether Apple has violated Section 337 of the Tariff Act of 1930 through its importation and sale after importation into the United States of iPods and iPod Nanos that infringe U.S. Patent 6,928,433, which Creative refers to as the "Zen Patent." As relief, Creative is seeking an exclusion order and cease and desist order against Apple to prohibit Apple from engaging in sales, marketing, importation or sale after importation into the United States, or other infringing activities in the United States with regard to the infringing iPod and iPod Nano products. Creative also filed a lawsuit today against Apple in the United States District Court for the Northern District of California that seeks an injunction and increased damages for Apple Computer Inc.'s willful infringement of the Zen Patent.

Australia legalizes iPod downloads...

The Australian government has decided to change its copyright laws, allowing users to record television programs and transfer music from CDs to an iPod legally. While downloading music and video files from the internet remains illegal, and authorities have threatened to heavily police such activities, the changes will allow consumers to record shows for one-time playback with family and friends. The changes also put in place new enforcement measures to combat piracy, such as on-the-spot fines, proceeds-of-crime remedies, and a change to presumptions in litigation to ease the process of establishing copyright piracy, according to PortalIT.

iStyles launches iPod sleeves

iStyles today announced the launch of iStyles Sleeves for fifth-generation iPod and iPod nano. Each sleeve is made from one of twenty-three exotic materials that consist of high quality fabrics, leather, suede leather, semi-microfibre synthetic leather, synthetic fur, and straw. The insides of each sleeve are lined with a micro-fiber cloth that not only protects the iPod from scratches, but also polishes and cleans the device as it is placed inside the sleeve. Each sleeve also ships with an easily hidden loop that can be attached to belts, backpacks, or other items. iStyles Sleeves are priced at $10, and are available in limited quantities according to the company.

Recycled rubber cases debut

Better Energy Systems today launched Tread, a new line of digital accessory cases made from reengineered Columbian truck tires. Each environmentally aware case is hand crafted and one of a kind, featuring durable waterproof rubber and nylon stitching. The cases boast a sleek design coupled with an integrated headphone holder. The various case styles are available for 40GB third-generation iPod ($30), iPod nano in four colors ($35, Ellipse III blue shown at right), and PowerBook G4 or MacBook Pro ($100). All Tread cases ship with a one-year warranty.

Micro Heaven to offer iHome IH5

Micro Heaven today announced a partnership with iHome Audio to sell its iH5 iPod clock radio in addition to the company's existing iPod accessories. The iHome iH5 iPod clock radio features a "wake to iPod" AM/FM radio/buzzer, removable dock inserts that fit all docking iPods and charge the devices while docked, programmable sleep, and stereo drivers utilizing exclusive Reson8 speakers. The device includes a patch cord, gradual wake and gradual sleep increase/decrease alarm or sleep volume, and a multifunction LCD display with adjustable backlighting. The iH5 is available for pre-order from www.easyishop.co.uk for £100, and is slated for shipment in late June.