Apple to counter Zune with innovation...

Analysts are expecting to Apple to respond to Microsoft's forthcoming Zune iPod rival with new features and more innovation. Bear Stearns Equity Research analyst Andrew Neff, who maintains an 'outperform' rating on Apple with a price target of $88, said that while Microsoft's Zune offering will pose a "clear challenge" to Apple, the company will likely respond by adding new features to the iPod. Specifically, the analyst is looking for innovations to Apple's iPod in four areas: wireless, content, storage, and platforms, according to a research note obtained by Forbes.com. Ironically, another analyst said that Microsoft's rumored inclusion of Wi-Fi technologies will limit the device's battery life, while other industry watchers believe that Zune will hurt Microsoft's partners and has little room to succeed.

Ubercaster beta released

Pleasant Software has released the beta for Übercaster, its new podcast production studio software. The production suite is designed for podcasters featuring tools to help with voice management, voice input (from Skype, iChat, and Gizmo), and a variety of encoding options including MP3 and AAC. The company is inviting all podcasters to try out the beta, by obtaining a license key for free. The beta was originally announced last week, as was the beta sign up. Übercaster requires Mac OS X 10.4.4 or later.

Custom iPod, iBook, PowerBook skins

Skinit has released Skinit Skins, a series of vinyl covers designed for more than 1,000 different mobile devices which include Apple's iPod, iBook, and PowerBook. Skinit categories include art, collegiate, comics, entertainment, fashion, flags of the world, military, models, music, sports, skin it stock images, and rides. The skins leave no sticky residue when removed, and the company offers a service to turn personal photos into custom skins. Visitors can upload personal photos for approval, after which the company produces a tailored skin for the device of choice. Skinit iPod skins -- both custom and pre-made -- are priced at $15 and fit all iPod models. Skinit iBook and PowerBook skins are priced at $30.

Power Support unveils Nano Splash Case

Power Support has unveiled the Splash Case for iPod nano, a protective shield of water resistant silicone built to guard the portable media player against water and sand. Designed as an outdoor case that won't compromise the Nano's style or function, the Splash Case encloses the iPod with specially formulated medical grade silicone offering screen visibility and access to all controls without removing the player from the case. Power Support warns buyers, however, that the iPod should never be fully submerged in water. The Splash Case is priced at $35, and is slated for shipment some time this month.