macnn/ipodnn
01/08/2009, 3:55pm, EST
Thursday, January 8th
Tuneblocker iPod cable charges without syncing
Matais has come up with a simple solution to a minor annoyance that affects every iPod and iPhone user -- the unwanted sync. Tune Blocker allows users to charge their devices through USB, without having to sync through iTunes. The cable comes with a built-in switch, so users can choose whether or not to sync.
If you've ever been in a hurry trying to hook up an iPhone for a quick charge -- the syncing process can be tedious. The problem gets more complicated when syncing with someone else's computer. One mistake here and an iPod could be completely erased and loaded with someone else's music. Tune Blocker provides an old-school analog solution -- a hardware block.
Shipping in March, the cable is somewhat pricey. Tune Blocker will ship in two lengths -- 3ft for $25 and 6ft for $30. Pre-orders are being accepted now.
Filed under: iPod, iPhone
Other story tags: iTunes, MWSF, cable
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No sync charge?
Um....what? You don't need to sync your iPod/iPhone/Touch in order to charge it. iTunes won't even launch when you plug it in if you choose the option to do it.
Am I missing something here about this product?
Rip-off Report
I can save you $25-$30... just turn off automatic syncing in iTunes. There, it's done and it only cost you 2 seconds of your time.
Or...
If you happen to be blessed with a FW400 port, you can grab an old 3rd gen iPod FW cable...
Few bucks on eBay...
oh yes
Because you all don't see the need, it must be a waste of money. Sorry to break it to you, but some people might actually find this useful.
Did it occur to you that for certain people, they normally want iTunes to sync their iPods when they connect them to their mac, but there are also times they don't want to have their computer wasting their time launching iTunes just because they need to plug in their iPod?
Re: Or
Guest, that only works up to an iPod classic. Newer iPods have lost Firewire charging capabilities.