BroadClip debuts MediaCatcher for iPod

BroadClip today announced MediaCatcher (Windows only), its new easy-to-use 'broadcatching' system with a Web-based program guide. MediaCatcher represents the first PVR specifically designed to deliver content to the video iPod as well as other portable media players -- such as music-enabled cellular phones -- according to BroadClip. "With video-capable mobile devices becoming more common than television sets, we believe portable devices like the iPod are the new 'TV'. Unfortunately, there's a disconnect - with shows costing between $2 and $20 per download from iTunes there is no good way to fill up one's portable media player with video. So there are many millions of video players out there without much video to watch." MediaCatcher is designed to "bridge the disconnect" by allowing users to fill up iPods and other portable players with video content. Setting up a BroadClip account is a one-time fee of $140 that includes the cost of the hardware, which requires Windows 2000/XP. The company notes on its website, however, that Mac and Linux compatibility are on the way.

Boomwave ships Podstar Diablo Spectrum

Boomwave Products today began shipping the Podstar Diablo Spectrum, its new range of Podstar protective covers for Apple's second-generation iPod nano. The Podstar Diablo Spectrum combines six 'devilish' designs in six distinctive colors that include pink (Pinkachoo), lime green (Martial Martian), sky blue (Coral B), orange (The Ascorbic Man), black (Black Jack), and red (Matadork), allowing users to choose a custom look and feel for Apple's latest iPod nano. Each Podstar character includes a sterling silver earring, removable colored clickwheel protector, screen protector, neck strap, and an individual Podstar ID. The cases are made from high grade silicone, according to Boomwave, and are each priced at $20.

iTunes 7.0.2 adds 2G Shuffle support

Apple today released iTunes 7.0.2, adding support for the second-generation iPod shuffle and addressing a variety of stability and performance issues found in iTunes 7 and iTunes 7.0.1. "With iTunes 7 and the new iTunes Store, preview and purchase high-quality hit movies plus new and classic games designed exclusively for the Fifth Generation iPod," Apple wrote on its website. "Flip through your collection by album cover with Cover Flow, protect your iTunes library by backing up to CDs or DVDs, and much more." The update requires Mac OS X 10.3.9 or later or Windows 2000/XP, and is available for free.

TuffWrap Accent for 2G Nano debuts

XtremeMac today debuted its TuffWrap Accent silicone cases designed to fit Apple's new second-generation iPod nano. TuffWrap Accent is a durable silicone case designed to protect the iPod nano from scratches and dings while offering access to all controls and ports. The case features ridged grips in a complementary color, as well as removable clickwheel and screen protectors. Sculpted from high-grade silicone, the clickwheel protector is a form-fitting insert that offers play-through access alongside the clear, hard plastic-edged screen protector with soft rubber. The TuffWrap Accent case also includes a detachable belt clip that rotates and locks in a variety of positions and secures excess earbud cord. Additionally, each TuffWrap Accent comes with a Universal Dock Well insert that accommodates the iPod nano without having to remove the case. TuffWrap Accent cases are available for pre-order in two color combinations for $25 via the XtremeMac website, and are expected to ship on November 6th.

RunAway for iPod Sport Kit ships

SwitchEasy today began shipping the RunAway, an Adapter for the iPod Sport Kit designed for runners looking to adapt the kit to 'non-compatible' shoes. RunAway features an organizer/holder function for the iPod Sport Kit Receiver, provides a power button to disable the sensor, and features splash-roof Polycarbonate/ABS construction for easy cleaning. The device comes in sex colors which include white, black, red, orange, pastel blue, and pink to complement most shoe selections. RunAway is available for $8, and the company plans to ship SwitchEasy Tips -- packs of three translucent lens caps in red, orange, and yellow -- in mid-November for $4 each.

iPod shuffles expected on Friday

Apple today confirmed that it is shipping its second-generation iPod shuffle, which it claims is the smallest digital music player in the world. The player -- which measures nearly half the size of the original iPod shuffle -- will be available in Apple's retail stores and via Apple Authorized Resellers on November 3rd. The new Shuffle is half a cubic inch in volume, weighing half an ounce with a minimal aluminum design and a built-in belt clip. Apple's second-generation iPod shuffle boasts 1GB of flash memory storage holding up to 240 songs, and is available for $79. "With its ultra-compact design and built-in clip, the new iPod shuffle is the most wearable iPod ever," said Greg Joswiak, Apple's vice president of worldwide iPod product marketing. "The new iPod shuffle completes our all-new lineup of iPods for this holiday season and beyond, and we hope it's going to be a huge hit." Featuring up to 12 hours of battery life and based on the company's original screenless player, the new model allows users to listen to songs in order or randomly 'shuffled.'