Griffin ships TuneFlex for iPod

Griffin Technology today unveiled the TuneFlex for iPod, a dock and charger designed for ease of use in automobiles. TuneFlex grips the iPod in a secure cradle, holding the device on an adjustable and flexible steel neck. The cradle rotates independently to keep the iPod upright while plugging into the car's 12-volt cigarette lighter to power as well as charge the iPod on-the-go. TuneFlex's charging circuitry features a replaceable fuse to protect the player from power spikes or surges while charging, and a light at the base of the neck changes color to indicate charging status. A built-in 1/8-inch stereo line-out jack eases connectivity to stereos, while a low/high audio output switch ensures sound without distortion. TuneFlex also ships with a cassette tape adapter, and a free limited edition version of Griffin's exclusive iFill software. The TuneFlex for iPod ($50) works with fourth-generation and newer full-size iPods.

Nokia preps for iTunes-like service...

Nokia is planning to purchase Loudeye -- a digital music distributor -- for $60 million in a move that would bring Nokia closer to developing its own music download service to compete with Apple's iTunes Music Store, according to Macworld UK. "Music is a key experience for Nokia and Nokia Nseries multimedia computers. People should be able to access all the music they want, anywhere, anytime and at a reasonable cost," said Anssi Vanjoki, European vice president and general manager of multimedia at Nokia. Loudeye stockholders will receive $4.50 per share in cash for each share of Loudeye common stock under the agreement terms, which is expected to complete by the end of 2006.

Belkin cancels TuneStage for iPod nano

Belkin has reportedly canceled its plans to bring its TunesStage for the iPod nano to market, but has plans to offer a second-generation product for iPod nano users next month. TuneStage allows users to stream music from their iPod to a stereo system using a Bluetooth transmitter connected to the iPod paired with a receiver connected to any sound system. Early last month, the company announced its new TuneStage for iPod nano; however, plans to ship the device were delayed and now several reports have surfaced that indicate that it has been cancelled entirely. BlueTomorrow.com reports receiving a message confirming the rumors that the TuneStage for iPod nano has indeed been canceled, but that the company is working a new second-generation product: "We will, however, be coming out with a TuneStage II that will be compatible with the Nano and iPod with video. That's due out in late September." The company has posted little information on TuneStage since its initial announcement, has not posted a ship date, and is not taking pre-orders, but the it remains listed on the company website.