CNBC: 17m iPods could boost Q4 revenue

Eight percent of American consumers are planning to buy an iPod for the holidays as stated a "Holiday Central" survey. The figure represents about 17 million units -- or $2.7 billion in revenue -- which amounts to a greater portion of the holiday market than any other specific product. CNBC further notes that approximately 20 percent of Americans (42 million) already own an iPod, while 70 percent are planning on buying something else, or nothing at all. Three percent of that larger group want either a Nintendo Wii or Sony's Playstation 3, while two percent would like Microsoft's Xbox 360. The research findings suggest a positive holiday season for Apple, which Forrester Research earlier this week said is likely experiencing plummeting iTunes sales despite higher iPod unit shipments.

Cambridge unveils PlayDock i speakers

Coming from Cambridge Soundworks next month is the PlayDock i, an iPod-compatible version of the newly-released PlayDock Zen system for Creative's digital audio players. The PlayDock's speakers are designed for wider spatial imaging, according to Electronista, and are matched by an accompanying subwoofer for better bass output. Magnetic shielding protects the speakers from nearby computers and the docks are controllable from a distance via infrared remote. Players with video support can use the dock for 640x480 video output on a nearby TV, and the PlayDock Zen is distinguished by a telescopic antenna to aid the Zen's built-in FM tuner. Both systems are shipping for $200.

Griffin launches HomeConnect iPod cable

Griffin Technology has launched the HomeConnect for iPod, a cable that transfers audio, photos, and video content from a video iPod to a home sound system and TV. The cable is designed to eliminate home clutter while providing the necessary connections with two-channel stereo and composite video. The 3.5mm accessory plugs into the headphone jack of an iPod, while the other end is connected to a stereo, TV, or home theater. The HomeConnect plays audio from all iPod models, allowing users to share photos with Apple's iPod photo or video content with the fifth-generation video iPod. The HomeConnect is available for $15.

EOS launches wireless speaker iPod dock

EOS Wireless is developing an iPod dock that links up to four sets of stereo speakers together with a wireless connection, providing what the company describes as "whole home audio." Electronista reports that each set can be placed as far as 150 feet away from the base station and that the device has an integrated (but detachable) power supply which lets it connect directly to an outlet. In addition to the dock and the transmitter, the base has a subwoofer and its own pair of stereo drivers. Signals are sent out in the SRS WOW (simulated surround) format. The core EOS system is expected to ship in March, including one dock and one remote unit, for $300. Extra remotes will be sold separately, as will a weatherproof outdoor amplifier and a transmitter/receiver bundle, according to the report.