News Archive for 09/09/09

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Griffin intros Headphone Control Adapter for iPod nano 5G

09/09, 9:20pm

iPod nano 5G VoiceOver-compatible adapter

Griffin Technology has announced a new VoiceOver-compatible adapter for Apple’s latest iPod nano 5G and iPod shuffle 3G. The Headphone Control Adapter with VoiceOver support connects to the user’s headphones, enabling them to listen to spoken information such as the artist, track or playlist. The adapter works as an inline remote-control and can be used to control playback with any iPod model that supports transport controls, including the new iPod touch or iPod classic.

Marware launches SportShell hard-case for iPhone 3GS

09/09, 9:10pm

SportShell case launches for iPhone 3GS

On Wednesday, Marware launched a new protective case for its line of iPhone 3G/3GS accessories, the SportShell. The hard-shell case features an interchangeable design that enables users to alter the backing in three different ways. The first option is a 360-degree ratchet clip that attaches the iPhone to a strap or belt, and can also be locked into place to double as a stand. Next, users can just remove the clip and keep a thin back piece in place instead, or remove it altogether for an open-backed look that displays the phone’s Apple logo while still keeping it protected.

Sony intros 7.1ch wireless headphones, BT adapter

09/09, 6:55pm

Sony shows 7.1-channel headphones, BT adapters

Sony Japan has recently introduced wireless headphones that operate on the 2.4GHz frequency and, more importantly, can reproduce 7.1-channel audio. The MDR-DS7100 set has support for Dolby Digital, Dolby Digital EX, DTS and DTS-ES surround sound formats. Their range is said to be a long 98 feet, while battery life is also longer than for most simpler wireless headphones at 13 hours. Each earpiece packs a near 2-inch (50mm) driver.

Toshiba intros 160GB 1.8-inch hard drive

09/09, 6:00pm

Toshiba intros quietest, largest 1.8-inch HDD

Toshiba has recently unveiled a new lineup of portable hard drives for portable consumer electronic devices, all based on a 1.8-inch form factor and up to 160GB in capacity. All MKxx34GAL units use a single platter that is less than a fifth of an inch (5mm) high, making them suitable for portable media players, digital video cameras and other portable electronics. Toshiba touts its new drives as offering the highest storage capacity, best power efficiency, most durability and quietest seek operation.

First look: iTunes 9

09/09, 5:30pm

iTunes player and store tested

Apple regularly promises that each whole-digit iTunes revision is a major overhaul, but in most cases these are add-ons to the existing framework rather than genuine redesigns. Some have complained that this has gradually led iTunes into feature creep, especially at the iTunes Store: the sheer number of features has meant wading through the interface to get at what used to be simple tasks. iTunes 9 theoretically promises the best of both worlds; we're taking a first look to see if the claims live up to expectations.

Fifth-gen iPod nano adopts camera, FM radio

09/09, 2:35pm

Apple caves on key demand

Apple today announced the fifth-generation iPod nano, a radical revision of its compact media player. The device now has a built-in video camera, validating earlier rumors. Owners can record clips and sync them with iTunes, and then optionally upload them to YouTube. Video is rendered in 640x480 resolution at up to 30fps, with 15 real-time processing effects such as motion blur, film grain or a simulated x-ray look.

Apple intros iPod touch without built-in camera

09/09, 2:30pm

3rd-generation iPod touch

Apple today at its "Rock & Roll" music event launched the third-generation iPod touch. The media player now has the same processing power as the iPhone 3GS and is up to about 50 percent faster than the older model and supports the same OpenGL ES 2.0 visual effects. No mention has been made of cameras on the devices, which run iPhone OS 3.1 and still have the familiar tapered chrome back.

Apple outs 160GB iPod classic, colored iPod shuffle

09/09, 2:20pm

Same iPod designs, new storage and colors

As part of its music event, Apple on Wednesday refreshed the iPod classic and third-generation iPod shuffle. The iPod shuffle has received the most noticeable changes with new color options. Beyond the original black and silver, the screenless player will now also come in blue, green and pink at its existing $79 price. The company is also introducing a special stainless steel trim that will cost $99 at the same capacity and is rolling out a 2GB edition with the same features for $59.

Report reveals 2009's iPod capacity changes, colors

09/09, 12:05pm

iPod touch absent from reseller part number list

A leaked list may reveal today's iPod capacity changes, or the lack thereof, according to a report. Said to have been supplied by "people familiar with the matter," the list details an assortment of iPod models and colors, as well as their onboard storage in gigabytes. Significant in the collection is a new iPod classic, with 160GB of memory instead of the current 120GB. Silver and black colors remain.

Harman Kardon receiver takes HD iPod videos

09/09, 11:30am

Harman Kardon AVR 3600 and more

Harman Kardon today brought out a trio of new AV receivers that, in one case, may hint at future iPod features. The AVR 3600 comes with a new Bridge III universal dock that the company claims can play HD videos directly from an iPhone or iPod. It's not clear whether the company expects the Apple devices to handle decoding the videos themselves or if it provides the work itself; officially, current iPhone and iPod touch devices will only play 640x480.

Apple cuts most iPod prices ahead of event

09/09, 7:55am

iPod prices cut ahead of new models

Apple in a rare move this morning dropped the prices of most iPods at the online Apple Store ahead of today's special music event. The iPod touch has received the largest drop and now costs just $279 for a 32GB model, $249 for a 16GB model and $189 for an 8GB version. The iPod nano has received more modest drops from $199 to $149 for a 16GB edition and from $149 to $129 for 8GB versions. The iPod classic has also received a mild price cut to $229 from $249.

Updated iPod nano to feature improved case material?

09/09, 12:05am

Last-minute rumor suggests new Nano case material

On the eve of Apple's music-themed event, speculation regarding potential product announcements has lead to several fresh rumors. Daring Fireball blogger John Gruber mentions several claims suggesting the iPod nano might be updated with a redesigned case featuring "some sort of top-secret new material," adding to earlier reports of a camera upgrade.