News Archive for 06/08/11

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iPod software offers PDA functionality

08/11, 12:35pm

PDA functionality on iPod

ZappTek has released a new iPod software bundle allowing users to view files, listen to music, and present slideshows or other media. iPresent converts PowerPoint, Keynote, and PDF presentations into slideshows which are synced with an iPod. iSpeak It converts any document or RSS feed into an MP3/AAC track in iTunes using the Mac's built-in text-to-speech capabilities. The iPDA software allows users to sync PIM data such as Word, RTF, or text documents as well as Web content including RSS feeds, weather forecasts, and news headlines. The complete bundle is available for $45.

MS Zune to have limited WiFi at $299

08/11, 10:55am

Limited WiFi in Zune

Offering more details the forthcoming Microsoft media player, Electronista.com reports that its Zune player will have limited WiFi capabitilities, allowing users to bookmark songs through shared wireless connectivity; however, purchasing a song will require a connection to a PC. In addition, the publication reports that the player will ship in three colors and the "iPod killer" will be aggressively price around $300 to compete with Apple's 30GB iPod video, although it will likely sport a larger color screen: "With the Zune player's Fall launch timeframe rapidly approaching, retail stores need to know what they can sell and what to promote when the hardware is finally ready. This is why sources in retail now have additional information beyond what little Microsoft has made public. First is the price: despite claims that the Zune would ship for $399 due to its features, the most recent update puts the price on par with Apple's current 30 GB iPod, which sells for $299. This may well be impressive given that the production player should have a bigger screen than the iPod."

BBC plans clip-on digital radio

08/11, 10:50am

BBC clip-on digital radio

The BBC is planning on releasing a clip-on digital radio popular digital players, which may include the iPod. Citing studies showing that one-fifth of Americans over 12 years old own at least one player, the BBC has a vested interest in keeping radio alive during a time when more and more people listen only to their private music collections, according to Electronista.com: "The device will not be limited to the BBC's own content, and players will likely also be made for cars and cellphones." Although stories of Apple's involvement are "pure speculation," the report notes that the iPod's dominance of the digital player market "will clearly require that the BBC at least consider iPod support for the digital radio add-on."

Character iPod skins for Nano, 5G iPod

08/11, 8:35am

Characters for 5G and nano

iStyles has announced an update to its collection of skins for the iPod Video and iPod nano. The skins are based off of based on character themes ranging from cute Pacman-like ghosts, Frankenstein, and Mr Balloon, to the beautiful Fire Bird. The skins features an high resolution full-color design that is printed on 'premium grade' adhesive-backed cast vinyl. Each skin is covered with a clear protective layer for improved durability. iStyles uses a patented repositionable and removable adhesive backing on all of its skin products for fast, easy and accurate installation along with "goo-free" removal. Available now for both the iPod Video (up to $8 each) and iPod Nano ($7 each). [image included]