News Archive for 06/06/06

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Norway, iTunes ToS

06/06, 5:10pm

Norway challenges Apple's iTunes ToS

A consumer advocate group has won a preliminary ruling that may force Apple to change its iTunes terms of service (ToS) in Norway. Earlier this year, the Consumer Council of Norway lodged a complaint with the Consumer Ombudsman, a government representative, over iTunes Music Store in Norway. Alleging breach of fundamental consumer rights, the group argued that Apple terms of service were in violation of Section 9a of the country's Marketing Control Act and also said that iTunes' digital right management violated consumer protection laws. A decision, however, was not yet made with regards to iTunes' DRM and a few other issues. The group, however, claimed victory on several points and said that the ruling would also apply to other digital music services, perhaps signaling a movement toward greater consumer rights.

Bass Fréq modaphones

06/06, 4:35pm

V-Moda launches Bass Fréq modaphones

V-Moda today launched Bass Fréq modaphones, its earphones specifically designed for listeners who want to experience deep bass. The earphones come in eight color options and incorporate BLISS (Bass Level Isolating Soft Silicon) technology, reducing outside noise to produce a stronger and more natural bass response. BLISS noise isolation introduces no artificial sound into the music, and requires no batteries.

DLO Limited Ed. Cross Case

06/06, 3:10pm

DLO offers limited cases for U2 iPod

Digital Lifestyle Outfitters (DLO) today announced a new Limited Edition Cross Case for Apple's updated U2 Special Edition iPod. The Cross Case features red and black soft leather with a large, distinctive red cross on the front. It also features a unique design that allows both fourth- and fifth-generation iPods to fit equally well, which it says is "a first" for any leather case available today. Coinciding with the release of the new U2 Special Edition iPod, the company is now offering a limited number of Cross Cases are available for purchase exclusively online for $40.

GrandStand iPod case ships

06/06, 11:35am

GrandStand video iPod case ships

Pacific Design today launched the GrandStand, a case designed to protect Apple's fifth-generation video iPod. The case offers an integrated desk stand with full product protection for the iPod, and features screen protection made from GE Lexan. The transparent cover reduces glare, while the GrandStand is constructed from Italian-sourced polyurethane material and full-grain leather. The GrandStand comes in various color combinations which include black with a red stripe, rich brown with a tan stripe (shown at right), leaf green with a white stripe, turquoise with a white stripe, and hot pink with a white stripe. The case provides complete access to the headphone port as well as the dock connector, and attaches to briefcases, belts, backpacks, or other apparel via a snap-closure cilp on the rear of the case. The GrandStand ships for $40.

MicroMemo for iPod

06/06, 10:35am

XtremeMac to ship MicroMemo in July

XtremeMac today offered more details on its MicroMemo digital recorder. Designed for the iPod with video, takes advantage of the player's high-fidelity audio capabilities to record and play back verbal notes, interviews, podcasts or lectures. It can also be used to record language lessons to help reinforce proper pronunciation and accent or for recording oral homework. For music students, MicroMemo also supports line-in recording directly from instruments or digital mixers. MicroMemo attaches to the iPod via the Dock connector and records 16-bit audio in high- or low-quality formats. It is expected to ship in July for $60.

iPod U2 Special Edition

06/06, 9:10am

Apple debuts new U2 iPod

Apple today introduced the new iPod U2 Special Edition as part of a continued partnership between Apple, U2 and Universal Music Group (UMG). The new U2 iPod is based on the fifth generation 30GB iPod and holds up to 7,500 songs, 25,000 photos or over 75 hours of video and features a distinctive, all-black stainless steel enclosure, red Click Wheel and custom engraving of U2 band member signatures. U2 iPod customers will also receive 30 minutes of exclusive U2 video downloadable from the iTunes Music Store. The new U2 iPod is available immediately for $329. "We're thrilled to continue working with one of the greatest bands in the world to bring U2 fans a special edition of the world's best digital music player," said Greg Joswiak, Apple's vice president of worldwide iPod Product Marketing. "With its distinctive new design, including an all-black stainless steel enclosure, the new U2 iPod is sure to be a hit."