News Archive for 06/08/03

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French law takes effect

08/03, 4:00pm

French DRM law takes effect

The French law which repeatedly threatened Apple's iPod/iTunes ecosystem today officially went into effect, according to a report from the Associated Press. The bill initially passed the house with measures that Apple dubbed "State-sponsored piracy," but was watered down later in its progression through the French Senate prior to its final approval. The French Constitutional Council last week further diluted the new law, eliminating several measures that it said were unconstitutional. Industry watchers predicted that if the law passed in its initial form -- or even in its revised form following its passage through the French Senate -- Apple would close down the French iTunes Music Store, rather than offer competitors the opportunity to play tracks purchased from iTunes on their own portable media players.

Soloist iPod, SIRIUS dock

08/03, 2:55pm

Soloist iPod, SIRIUS dock debuts

Directed Electronics today debuted the Soloist Universal Media Dock (site not updated), utilizing included interchangeable cradles to dock numerous types of iPods and SIRIUS receivers. The new dock uses patented SurfaceSound flat panel technology by NXT, and is powered by a 10 watt-per-channel Tripath amplifier. The front panel of the device features an auxiliary in jack, as well as a headphone port. The rear panel offers auxiliary in as well as out, a USB port, and a built-in alarm clock with a snooze button that can wake users to a favorite SIRIUS station or iPod song. The Soloist is due to ship in September with a SIRIUS home antenna, an IR remote control, and an AC Adapter for $150.

Bosco's Sensor Pouch

08/03, 10:50am

Pouch expands iPod+Nike Sport Kit

Hutchings Software has launched Bosco's Sensor Pouch, an accessory enabling runners to use the iPod+Nike Sport Kit accurately and securely with the shoes of their choice. The pouch is machine stitched from black or white fleece material, holding the sensor in place for accuracy while protecting it from the elements. A Velcro strap closes the pouch mouth and secures it to the shoe laces. Bosco's Sensor Pouch is priced at $6 including shipping, while Bosco's Sensor Pouch Deluxe is available for $10 with printed instructions and a storage tin.

Apple defends iTMS Norway

08/03, 10:15am

Apple defends iTunes in Norway

Apple in a letter to the Norway Consumer Council denies claims of acting illegally by restricting music purchased from its iTunes Music Store to only play on its own devices. Apple has said that its practice is "not unfair," but admitted that it should clarify its marketing situation, according to the Financial Times. "Our position is that this is a tool to lock consumers into their products," said Torgeir Waterhouse, a senior adviser to the Norwegian Consumer Council. "This is just the start of a long struggle. We are at the beginning of a booming digital market and if we don't win this one then we won't be able to achieve a fair marketplace."

Ford, GM, Mazda, Apple

08/03, 8:50am

Ford, GM, Mazda plan iPod connectivity

Apple has announced that it has teamed up with Ford, General Motors, and Mazda to bring 'seamless' iPod integration into the majority of their cars, reports Leftlane News. Apple says that more than 70 percent of 2007-model year automobiles sold in the US will offer iPod integration to buyers. Greg Joswiak, Apple’s vice president of Worldwide iPod Product Marketing stated that he was delighted with this deal and that, “Now more than 70 percent of 2007-model year automobiles in the US will offer iPod integration, with General Motors alone making it available on all 56 of its models, representing millions of cars and trucks.” Ford and GM will boast iPod connectivity on the majority of their lines in the United States 2007 model year vehicles, while Mazda will bring iPod connectivity to all their 2007 vehicles across the globe. The systems will offer iPod charging, improved sound quality, and convenient iPod storage. iPod integration will give the driver full control over the iPod through the stereo controls included with the car.