BelchCo.com debuts carbon fiber iPod cases...

BelchCo.com has begun taking pre-orders for carbon fiber cases designed to protect Apple's second-generation iPod nano. The company also announced that it will release cases for the first-generation iPod nano, as well as 30GB and 60GB fifth-generation video iPods. Constructed from high quality carbon fiber, BelchCo.com's protective covers allow the iPod to slide in on the right side, and the left side features a unique style of carbon fiber that acts as a hinge. Protective tabs adorn the top and bottom to keep the iPod secure inside while maintaining full access to controls and ports. Case interiors are coated to hold the iPod firmly in place. The cases are scheduled to ship January 15th, and are priced at $50.

Zicplay debuts EWOO iPod remote...

Zicplay has unveiled EWOO, a new remote control device dedicated to iPod users. The remote offers full control over Apple's portable player with support for music as well as videos, and includes a dock to charge the iPod as well as a USB adapter to control/browse iTunes. The device integrates a Lithium Polymere battery that provides 10 days of power, and weighs just 60 grams. The dock offers optical, analog, and S-video output ports. The EWOO features a color TFT screen to aid users in browsing iTunes libraries, and boasts a range of up to 100-feet. Zicplay expects to ship the remote in early February for $130 in the U.S. and Europe.

Haier, AOL to launch iPod competitor with Wi

Haier at CES today announced that it will partner with AOL to launch a new media player that it hopes will break away from the software limitations of current players and provide a clear rival to Apple's dominating iPod. Dubbed the SmartScreens Media Device, the player uses an iPod-influenced menu system but is Linux-based, allowing for relatively easy changes to the software by developers and owners. Haier touts Wi-Fi as the player's true appeal, versus Microsoft's Zune player with Wi-Fi that is limited to local sharing. The SmartScreens device connects to a wireless network to access internet services from AOL, allowing any user to stream internet radio for free while enabling users to purchase songs and other content directly from the handheld. Bluetooth functionality also adds the option of playing music through wireless headphones or speakers, according to Electronista. The company's plan to launch the new player alongside a new AOL service in the second or third quarter of 2007 for an unknown price.