Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Insert Coin: A look back at ten top projects from 2011]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/31/insert-coin-a-look-back-at-ten-top-projects-from-2011/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/31/insert-coin-a-look-back-at-ten-top-projects-from-2011/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/31/insert-coin-a-look-back-at-ten-top-projects-from-2011/#comments #editors-choice #editors-header { padding: 0; margin: 10px 0; } #editors-choice .section { border: 5px solid #EEE; margin: 10px 0; position: relative; } #editors-choice .section:hover { border-color: #00BDF6; } #editors-choice .section a:hover { text-decoration: none; } #editors-choice .section .winner { display: block; } #editors-choice .section .winner img { display: block; float: left; margin: 0; } #editors-choice .section .winner .details { float: left; width: 410px; margin: 0 0 0 15px; } #editors-choice .section .winner .details h2 { color: #444; font-size: 18px; letter-spacing: -1px; padding: 10px 0 0; } #editors-choice .section .winner .details h3 { font-size: 26px; letter-spacing: -1px; padding: 7px 0 11px; } #editors-choice .section .winner .details p { color: #222; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; } #editors-choice .section .runner-up { display: block; position: absolute; bottom: 0; right: 0; background-color: #333; padding: 3px 10px; } #editors-choice .section .runner-up strong { font-family: Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif; letter-spacing: -1px; margin-right: 3px; color: #BBB; }

2011 has been a tremendous year for tech -- Amazon launched a $200 Android tablet, AT&T and Verizon continued their LTE expansion, Apple killed off the Mac mini's SuperDrive and Samsung introduced a well-received killer 5.3-inch smartphone. But tiny tech startups made their mark as well, proving that you don't need an enormous R&D budget to spur innovation. Still, development isn't free, and unless your social circle includes eager investors, seed money has been traditionally hard to come by.

For many of this year's indie devs, crowdfunding sites have been the answer, with Kickstarter leading the pack. We've seen an enormous variety of projects -- including a deluge of duds and plenty more semi-redundant iPhone accessories -- but a few treasures soared above the swill to be featured in our Insert Coin series, with many of those meeting their funding goals and even making their way into the hands of consumers. Now, as 2011 draws to a close, we've gone through this past year's projects to single out our top ten, and they're waiting for your consideration just past the break.

Continue reading Insert Coin: A look back at ten top projects from 2011

Insert Coin: A look back at ten top projects from 2011 originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 31 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>6dotappleArduinoaudiobraillecameracamera triggercamerasCameraTriggereyezfeaturefeaturesheadphoneheadphonesinsert coinInsertCoiniphoneiphone 4Iphone4ipodipod shuffleIpodShufflekickstarterkye allumsKyeAllumslabelermobilepostcrossmousemutitouchODDIO1olloclipprostheticremoteremote controlRemoteControlrobotroboticsrobotsromoshufflesmartphonesmartphonesTeagueduinotriggertrigger traptriggersTriggerTraptwinezioneyezSat, 31 Dec 2011 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Insert Coin: ODDIO1 straps an iPod shuffle to your head, makes you inexplicably cooler]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/insert-coin-oddio1-straps-an-ipod-shuffle-to-your-head-makes-y/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/insert-coin-oddio1-straps-an-ipod-shuffle-to-your-head-makes-y/http://www.engadget.com/2011/12/01/insert-coin-oddio1-straps-an-ipod-shuffle-to-your-head-makes-y/#commentsIn Insert Coin, we look at an exciting new tech project that requires funding before it can hit production. If you'd like to pitch a project, please send us a tip with "Insert Coin" as the subject line.

Micro music players like the iPod shuffle are great when you're shredding the powder, but long cords can be a health hazard, even in the office -- if one wraps itself 'round your coffee mug, you risk having twelve ounces of hot liquid landing in your lap. Designers Jeremy Saxton & Jacob Hall have developed the ODDIO1, a pair of headphones that do away with all that unnecessary cabling -- holstering the shuffle on the right earpiece. If you're interested in getting your hands on a pair of these infuriatingly simple yet elegant cans, ride on past the break to find out more.

Continue reading Insert Coin: ODDIO1 straps an iPod shuffle to your head, makes you inexplicably cooler

Insert Coin: ODDIO1 straps an iPod shuffle to your head, makes you inexplicably cooler originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 01 Dec 2011 15:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cord Free HeadphonesCordFreeHeadphonesCrowdSourceFundingInsert CoinInsertCoiniPod HeadphonesiPod ShuffleIpodHeadphonesIpodShuffleJacob HallJacobHallJeremy SaxtonJeremySaxtonKickstarterODDIOODDIO HeadphonesODDIO1OddioHeadphonesvideoThu, 01 Dec 2011 15:03:00 EST<![CDATA[The iPod turns 10, celebrates a decade of destroying physical media]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/23/the-ipod-turns-10-celebrates-a-decade-of-destroying-physical-me/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/23/the-ipod-turns-10-celebrates-a-decade-of-destroying-physical-me/http://www.engadget.com/2011/10/23/the-ipod-turns-10-celebrates-a-decade-of-destroying-physical-me/#comments Evolution of the iPod It's hard to believe, but it's been exactly ten years since the iPod was first unveiled, ultimately changing the music industry forever. The iPod wasn't the first, it wasn't the smallest, it didn't have the largest hard drive, but it did have an iconic style and simple to use interface that led march away from CDs. When the history of Apple is written the iPod (perhaps more than the iMac, OS X or the iPhone) will be credited with helping spearhead the company's second coming. Over the years the music player has seen countless iterations and redesigns, and an expansion of the product line to include smaller devices and touch screens -- but for most it's the scroll wheel and white earbuds that define the iPod. Sure, what is now called the iPod classic hasn't seen a serious update since about 2007, but it still holds a special place in our hearts, especially for those of us who don't measure their music collection in a few dozen iTunes downloads.

The iPod turns 10, celebrates a decade of destroying physical media originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 23 Oct 2011 13:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversaryapplebirthdayipodipod miniipod nanoipod shuffleipod touchIpodMiniIpodNanoIpodShuffleIpodTouchpappersonal audiopersonal media playerPersonalAudioPersonalMediaPlayerpmpSun, 23 Oct 2011 13:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple axes iPod click wheel games in iTunes, is the 'classic' model next?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/30/apple-axes-ipod-click-wheel-games-in-itunes-is-the-classic-mo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/30/apple-axes-ipod-click-wheel-games-in-itunes-is-the-classic-mo/http://www.engadget.com/2011/09/30/apple-axes-ipod-click-wheel-games-in-itunes-is-the-classic-mo/#comments We're all well aware that a new iPhone will see daylight next week. What's still a bit unclear is whether or not Apple plans on discontinuing the ol' faithful iPod classic. However, we may be getting a clue as to what fate the PMP may soon meet. The folks over at AppleInsider discovered that the link to iPod Click Wheel Games no longer appears on the App Store drop-down menu in iTunes. Since 2006, the folks in in Cupertino have been offering added entertainment for the popular mobile jukebox for $7.49 each, but only about 50 titles were available for purchase -- it's kind of hard to develop software when a third-party kit wasn't publicly released. So if you're planning on hanging onto your iPod classic for a little while, we hope you're content to keep playing Vortex, Klondike or whatever else you've already downloaded.

Apple axes iPod click wheel games in iTunes, is the 'classic' model next? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 30 Sep 2011 16:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>app storeappleApple iPodApple iPod ClassicApple IPod NanoAppleIpodAppleIpodClassicAppleIpodNanoAppStoreclick wheelClickWheelgamesgamingiOSiPodipod classiciPod classic gamesiPod gamesiPod nanoiPod shuffleIpodClassicIpodClassicGamesIpodGamesIpodNanoIpodShuffleitunesFri, 30 Sep 2011 16:42:00 EST<![CDATA[SanDisk launches $50 Sansa Clip Zip MP3 player, makes for a cheap workout date]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/sandisk-launches-50-sansa-clip-zip-mp3-player-makes-for-a-chea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/sandisk-launches-50-sansa-clip-zip-mp3-player-makes-for-a-chea/http://www.engadget.com/2011/08/25/sandisk-launches-50-sansa-clip-zip-mp3-player-makes-for-a-chea/#comments If you've been working out with help from tunes on your Sansa Clip MP3 player or Sansa Clip+, chances are you've gotten a bit trimmer -- and you're not the only one. SanDisk's launched a thinner and upgraded version of its song slinger, the Sansa Clip Zip MP3 player. The newest incarnation plays all standard major music formats, comes in red, blue, black, orange, white, grey and purple, and has 4GB or 8GB worth of storage with room for more via microSD. It's launching in Europe next month, but is currently available in both the US and Canada for $50 and $70 depending upon how many jams you want it to hold. Thanks to its massive 1.1-inch display, the Clip claims 15 hours of battery life, which should be just enough time to keep up with your daily workouts, right? Jog on over to the full PR after the break.

Continue reading SanDisk launches $50 Sansa Clip Zip MP3 player, makes for a cheap workout date

SanDisk launches $50 Sansa Clip Zip MP3 player, makes for a cheap workout date originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 25 Aug 2011 08:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>audioipod shuffleIpodShufflemicrosdmp3mp3 playerMp3Playermusicpmpportable audioPortableAudioportablemusic playerPortablemusicPlayersandisksandisk sansasandisk sansa clip zipSandiskSansaSandiskSansaClipZipsansasansa clipSansaClipThu, 25 Aug 2011 08:55:00 EST<![CDATA[Spotify launches music download service with iPod sync, puts iTunes on notice]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/04/spotify-launches-download-service-with-ipod-sync-puts-itunes-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/04/spotify-launches-download-service-with-ipod-sync-puts-itunes-on/http://www.engadget.com/2011/05/04/spotify-launches-download-service-with-ipod-sync-puts-itunes-on/#comments Look out iTunes, Spotify has just launched its new music download service in Europe. What's more, the company that had been synonymous with music streaming will let you sync your downloaded MP3 playlist bundles to your USB-connected iPod classic, nano, or shuffle via a new "Devices" section of the Spotify app running on your computer. And listen up freeloaders, Spotify Mobile iOS and Android app users can now sync playlists wirelessly without a premium subscription (after purchasing the tracks, naturally). Here's a quote from Daniel Ek, Spotify CEO, sure to create some angst in Cupertino:
"From today, Spotify really is the only music player you'll ever need. Our users don't want to have to switch between music players, but they do want to take their playlists with them wherever they go, on a wider range of devices, more simply and at a price they can afford. Now we've made that possible on one of the world's most popular consumer devices."
Here's the dealio on Spotify's download prices for its nine million users of the free service (not premium subscribers):
  • 10 tracks for €9.99 or €1.00 per track (£7.99 or just under 80p per track)
  • 15 tracks for €12.99 or €0.87 per track (£9.99 / 67p)
  • 40 tracks for €30.00 or €0.75 per track (£25 / 63p)
  • 100 tracks for €60.00 or €0.60 per track (£50 / 50p)
All the new features will begin rolling out today as part of an automatic update. See the full press release after the break as well as a quick introduction video to get you started.

Continue reading Spotify launches music download service with iPod sync, puts iTunes on notice

Spotify launches music download service with iPod sync, puts iTunes on notice originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 04 May 2011 02:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>androidappleDaniel EkDanielEkdownloadeuropeiosipodipod classicipod nanoipod shuffleIpodClassicIpodNanoIpodShufflemusicmusic downloadsmusic streamingMusicDownloadsMusicStreamingspotifyspotify downloadspotify ipodspotify ipod syncSpotifyDownloadSpotifyIpodSpotifyIpodSyncvideoWed, 04 May 2011 02:02:00 EST<![CDATA[H2O Audio's Amphibx Grip waterproof armband keeps your new iPod nano, shuffle dry]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/06/h2o-audios-amphibx-grip-waterproof-armband-keeps-your-new-ipod/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/06/h2o-audios-amphibx-grip-waterproof-armband-keeps-your-new-ipod/http://www.engadget.com/2010/10/06/h2o-audios-amphibx-grip-waterproof-armband-keeps-your-new-ipod/#commentsYep -- the same folks that enabled your iPod nano 5G to become an underwater camera have just created yet another underwater armband for Apple's latest. H2O Audio's Amphibx Grip is specifically designed to keep the latest iPod nano and iPod shuffle shielded from the harmful, oftentimes fatal effects of liquid, promising a "100 percent watertight and secure seal that provides waterproofing up to 12 feet." We're told that the ClearTouch Window allows for full operation of touchscreen and button controls, and if you're wondering, the company would be more than happy to sell you a set of waterproof earbuds to go along with it. Check it right now for a penny under $60. Michael Phelps would.

Continue reading H2O Audio's Amphibx Grip waterproof armband keeps your new iPod nano, shuffle dry

H2O Audio's Amphibx Grip waterproof armband keeps your new iPod nano, shuffle dry originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 06 Oct 2010 23:16:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Amphibx GRIPAmphibxGriparmbandaudioearbudsh2oh2o audioH2oAudioheadphonesipodipod nanoipod shuffleIpodNanoIpodShufflenanoruggedshuffletoughwaterproofwaterproof headphonesWaterproofHeadphonesWed, 06 Oct 2010 23:16:00 EST<![CDATA[iPod nano vs touch vs shuffle... fight!]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/01/ipod-nano-vs-touch-vs-shuffle-fight/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/01/ipod-nano-vs-touch-vs-shuffle-fight/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/01/ipod-nano-vs-touch-vs-shuffle-fight/#comments Three new iPods under one roof -- how could we not throw them on a table and see how they size up against one another? Obviously, the iPod touch is the black sheep here in terms of sheer physical space, but the width / height difference between the nano and shuffle is as marginal as you probably guessed. More pics below!

Gallery: iPod shuffle vs nano vs touch (2010)... fight!

iPod nano vs touch vs shuffle... fight! originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Sep 2010 15:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applefighthands-onipodipod nanoipod nano 6gipod shuffleipod shuffle 4gipod touchipod touch 4gIpodNanoIpodNano6gIpodShuffleIpodShuffle4gIpodTouchIpodTouch4gWed, 01 Sep 2010 15:41:00 EST<![CDATA[iPod shuffle (2010) first hands-on!]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/01/ipod-shuffle-first-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/01/ipod-shuffle-first-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/01/ipod-shuffle-first-hands-on/#comments Not much to say here, it's got a click wheel in as few molecules as possible. Pics below!

Gallery: iPod shuffle (2010) first hands-on!

iPod shuffle (2010) first hands-on! originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Sep 2010 14:46:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applefall eventFallEventhands onhands-onHandsOnipodipod shuffle 2010ipodshuffleIpodShuffle2010mp3 playerMp3PlayermusicshufflesongsWed, 01 Sep 2010 14:46:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple announces redesigned iPod shuffle, brings the buttons back]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/01/apple-announces-redesigned-ipod-shuffle-brings-the-buttons-back/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/01/apple-announces-redesigned-ipod-shuffle-brings-the-buttons-back/http://www.engadget.com/2010/09/01/apple-announces-redesigned-ipod-shuffle-brings-the-buttons-back/#comments
 Apple's just announced a brand new, re-designed iPod shuffle. The button is back, and this model's got up to a 15 hour battery life, is available in five colors, and will run you $49. If you're in the mood, you can pre-order today, and it'll ship next week. Full press release is below.

Gallery: Apple announces redesigned iPod Shuffle


Gallery: Apple iPod shuffle (2010) press images



Check out our full coverage here!

Continue reading Apple announces redesigned iPod shuffle, brings the buttons back

Apple announces redesigned iPod shuffle, brings the buttons back originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 01 Sep 2010 13:24:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010applefall music eventFallMusicEventipodipod shuffleIpodShuffleshuffleWed, 01 Sep 2010 13:24:00 EST<![CDATA[Supposed next-gen iPod touch, nano / shuffle cases surface online]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/26/supposed-next-gen-ipod-touch-nano-shuffle-cases-surface-onlin/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/26/supposed-next-gen-ipod-touch-nano-shuffle-cases-surface-onlin/http://www.engadget.com/2010/08/26/supposed-next-gen-ipod-touch-nano-shuffle-cases-surface-onlin/#comments
Stop us if you've heard this one before -- an Apple event is looming, and suddenly some cases turn up online that seem to nicely line up with the devices rumored to be announced. These latest examples come courtesy of Chinese case retailer X-Doria, and include a case for what appears to be a 4th-gen iPod touch with a camera, and one that's described as a case for a "nano 6G," but could seemingly also be for a new iPod shuffle with a touchscreen. Of particular note, the apparent iPod touch case seems to reveal a curved back more similar to the current model than the iPhone 4, while the nano / shuffle case looks to be a near perfect match for that 1.7-inch Apple touchscreen that mysteriously turned up in Taiwan last month. What does it all mean? There's less than a week until we know for sure.

Supposed next-gen iPod touch, nano / shuffle cases surface online originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 26 Aug 2010 15:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple eventAppleEventipodipod nanoipod nano 6gipod shuffleipod touchipod touch 4gIpodNanoIpodNano6gIpodShuffleIpodTouchIpodTouch4gnanonano 6gNano6gshufflespecial eventSpecialEventThu, 26 Aug 2010 15:51:00 EST<![CDATA[Mini MP3 DV Cam shoves a camcorder into old iPod shuffle enclosure]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/12/mini-mp3-dv-cam-shoves-a-camcorder-into-old-ipod-shuffle-enclosu/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/12/mini-mp3-dv-cam-shoves-a-camcorder-into-old-ipod-shuffle-enclosu/http://www.engadget.com/2009/10/12/mini-mp3-dv-cam-shoves-a-camcorder-into-old-ipod-shuffle-enclosu/#commentsOkay, so we know this version of the shuffle hasn't been on Apple's pages for a few weeks now, but there's still something curiously awesome about a shuffle with a camcorder. You know -- considering that the Cupertino-based company won't even add a video camera to the iPod touch. The Mini MP3 DV Cam, which is meticulously crafted by one Xiangyun Industry Co., Limited, seems to be a camcorder / camera alone, with no music playback functionality to speak of. Packing a 1.3 megapixel sensor capable of logging VGA-quality (640 x 480 resolution) clips, the device can also snag stills and store 'em on the user-provided memory card. The good news is that this gem costs just $15 to $30 depending on the amount you order; the bad news is the 100 item order minimum. Anyone down for a group buy? Bueller?

[Via Red Ferret]

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Mini MP3 DV Cam shoves a camcorder into old iPod shuffle enclosure originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 12 Oct 2009 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>camcorderipod shuffleIpodShufflekirfknockoffmp3 dv camMp3DvCamrip offRipOffMon, 12 Oct 2009 11:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple releases video podcast of Rock and Roll event, we've got you covered with the highlights]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/09/apple-releases-video-podcast-of-rock-and-roll-event-weve-got-y/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/09/apple-releases-video-podcast-of-rock-and-roll-event-weve-got-y/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/09/apple-releases-video-podcast-of-rock-and-roll-event-weve-got-y/#comments
Need to catch up on today's Apple news? Well, you can either fire up iTunes and download Apple's video podcast of the event, or you can skip the endless game demos and marketing chit-chat and just peruse the links below. The executive summary? iTunes 9's new app management, Home Sharing, and iTunes LP features are really nice, but it's almost impossible to understand why Apple added a camera to the iPod nano and not the iPod touch, no matter what Steve says. Oh -- and don't forget the Palm Pixi!

The event

Live from Apple's 'It's only rock and roll' event
Video: Steve Jobs returns to the Apple stage

iPods

iPod nano unboxed, camera gets tested against the mean streets of Manhattan
iPod touch 3rd gen hands-on and video
iPod nano 5G with camera first hands-on!
Apple announces cheaper, more colorful iPod shuffle, new Special Edition
Apple updates iPod touch line, drops prices, adds top-end 64GB model
Apple adds video camera, larger screen to new 5G iPod nano
iPod classic bumped to 160GB, price stays the same at $249
iPhone OS 3.1 is official, available today
iPhone / iPod touch OS 3.1.1 is live!
iPod shuffle 2g is no more

iTunes

iTunes 9 bringing iTunes LP functionality, 'beautiful new look'
iTunes 9 breaks Pre media sync... what did you expect?
Video: iTunes 9 Home Sharing and iPhone app management

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Apple releases video podcast of Rock and Roll event, we've got you covered with the highlights originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 23:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleclassicipodipod classicipod nanoipod shuffleipod touchIpodClassicIpodNanoIpodShuffleIpodTouchitunesitunes 9Itunes9nanoportable audioportable videoportableaudioportablevideoroundupshuffletouchWed, 09 Sep 2009 23:34:00 EST<![CDATA[iPod shuffle 2G is no more]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/09/ipod-shuffle-2g-is-no-more/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/09/ipod-shuffle-2g-is-no-more/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/09/ipod-shuffle-2g-is-no-more/#comments Every highly-polished stainless steel lining has a cloud, it seems, and today's music player overhaul by Apple has been no different. Amidst all the excitement about moderate improvements and video cameras, we've also had to say goodbye to an old friend. Having been kept around for six months after the release of its successor, the second gen shuffle has finally succumbed, leaving the newly colorful 3G option all on its lonesome in the minimalist music lover space. Ah well, if you really have your heart set on the old rocker, refurb models are still available at Apple's online store, though probably not for long.

[Via iLounge]

Continue reading iPod shuffle 2G is no more

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iPod shuffle 2G is no more originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 21:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Appleend of lifeEndOfLifeeoliPodiPod ShuffleiPod Shuffle 2gIpodShuffleIpodShuffle2gonly rock and rollOnlyRockAndRollportable audioportableaudioShuffleWed, 09 Sep 2009 21:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple announces cheaper, more colorful iPod shuffle, new Special Edition]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/09/apple-announces-cheaper-more-colorful-ipod-shuffle-new-special/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/09/apple-announces-cheaper-more-colorful-ipod-shuffle-new-special/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/09/apple-announces-cheaper-more-colorful-ipod-shuffle-new-special/#comments
Well, it wasn't high on the rumor list, but it looks like Apple didn't forget about the humble iPod shuffle amidst all its other iPod news, with it taking the opportunity to both lower the price and add a much needed dash of color to the lineup. Now starting at just $59 for a 2GB model and $79 for a 4GB, the shuffle is also available in your choice of pink, green, or blue in addition the usual silver or black, as well as in a new, all stainless steel 4GB Special Edition for a premium price of $99 (which also just so happens to be an Apple Store exclusive). Not much else new, as you might expect, but Apple is also promising that more iPod shuffle-friendly headphones will soon be available, in case that's the one thing that's been keeping you and the voice apart all this time.

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Apple announces cheaper, more colorful iPod shuffle, new Special Edition originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 09 Sep 2009 12:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleipodipod shuffleipod shuffle special editionIpodShuffleIpodShuffleSpecialEditionits only rock and rollItsOnlyRockAndRollportable audioportableaudioWed, 09 Sep 2009 12:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Wiipod modder shoves an MP3 player in his Wiimote, calls it a day]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/21/wiipod-modder-shoves-an-mp3-player-in-his-wiimote-calls-it-a-da/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/21/wiipod-modder-shoves-an-mp3-player-in-his-wiimote-calls-it-a-da/http://www.engadget.com/2009/08/21/wiipod-modder-shoves-an-mp3-player-in-his-wiimote-calls-it-a-da/#comments
Readers, don't act like you're appalled that this mod consists entirely of an old iPod shuffle shoved into the battery compartment of a Wiimote game controller. If anything, you should be amused that this mod consists entirely of an old iPod shuffle KIRF shoved into the battery compartment of a Wiimote game controller. See for yourself after the break.

[Via Technabob]

Continue reading Wiipod modder shoves an MP3 player in his Wiimote, calls it a day

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Wiipod modder shoves an MP3 player in his Wiimote, calls it a day originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 21 Aug 2009 21:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>hacksipodipod shuffleIpodShufflekirfmodmodsportable audioportableaudioshufflewiimotewiipodFri, 21 Aug 2009 21:23:00 EST<![CDATA[iLuv's iEA15 adapter lets any headphones work with VoiceOver, iPhone]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/23/iluvs-iea15-adapter-lets-any-headphones-work-with-voiceover-ip/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/23/iluvs-iea15-adapter-lets-any-headphones-work-with-voiceover-ip/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/23/iluvs-iea15-adapter-lets-any-headphones-work-with-voiceover-ip/#comments
The suits in Cupertino already confirmed the existence of a proprietary chip in the new iPod shuffle headphones, but if you're squarely in the tin foil hat crowd, we've got one more shred of evidence to win you over. iLuv's newest adapter, the iEA15, outrightly asserts that it is "equipped with a remote control chip provided by Apple, Inc.," but it's the functionality of said adapter that has our interest piqued. Rather than settling for a set of VoiceOver-capable earbuds that you aren't really fond of, this here go-between enables any headphones with a 3.5 millimeter jack to connect with (and control) Apple's newest shuffle. Moreover, it'll play nice with the iPhone family as well, and the built in microphone enables you to handle a call without ever removing your 'buds. The frightening part is that no price and release date have been set, which probably means iLuv's lobbying to get that Made for iPod tax down in order to not charge $50 for this thing.

[Via CNET]

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iLuv's iEA15 adapter lets any headphones work with VoiceOver, iPhone originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 23 Jul 2009 09:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>adapterappleapple remoteAppleRemoteaudiochipheadphoneheadphonesiEA15iluvipodipod accessoryipod remoteipod shuffleIpodAccessoryIpodRemoteIpodShuffleportable audioportableaudioremotevoiceoverThu, 23 Jul 2009 09:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Lawsuit alleges Apple conspired with Mafia, put hidden receivers in iPods for transmitting death threats]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/20/lawsuit-alleges-apple-conspired-with-mafia-put-hidden-receivers/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/20/lawsuit-alleges-apple-conspired-with-mafia-put-hidden-receivers/http://www.engadget.com/2009/07/20/lawsuit-alleges-apple-conspired-with-mafia-put-hidden-receivers/#comments What you are about to read is from an actual court filing. Gregory McKenna has filed suit against Apple, which he alleges is conspiring with the mob in an effort to coerce him to return to a New York-based modeling agency he quit in 2000. As explained in the 124-page complaint, an iPod shuffle he bought on eBay in 2005 and an iPod mini he bought new from an Apple store in 2006 -- possibly a nano, as minis were discontinued a year prior -- both contain receivers that have allowed the Mafia to send audio death threats that play in tandem with his music. The suit seeks $14.3 million total and lists ten defendants in all, including a local mechanic, a private investigator, the St. Louis Police Department, the FBI, and the US Department of Justice. While our initial reaction is to laugh at the ridiculousness of it all, it's hard not to feel sad for McKenna and his state of mind -- of course, if by some stroke of fate he manages to prove it was all one big conspiracy perpetrated by the Mafia, well, guess we'll be ending up with egg on our faces.

[Via TUAW]

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Lawsuit alleges Apple conspired with Mafia, put hidden receivers in iPods for transmitting death threats originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 21:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applegregory mckennaGregoryMckennaipod miniipod shuffleIpodMiniIpodShuffleitalian mafiaItalianMafialawlaw suitLawSuitlegalmafiamckennamobportable audioportable videoportableaudioportablevideoMon, 20 Jul 2009 21:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Scosche tapSTICK adds hard buttons, purpose to new iPod shuffle]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/06/scosche-tapstick-adds-hard-buttons-purpose-to-new-ipod-shuffle/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/06/scosche-tapstick-adds-hard-buttons-purpose-to-new-ipod-shuffle/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/06/scosche-tapstick-adds-hard-buttons-purpose-to-new-ipod-shuffle/#comments
We appreciate Apple's efforts to make the iPod shuffle into something that no one's ever done before, but seriously, the no-buttons approach is sort of, um, annoying. Thankfully, the good guys and gals over at Scosche are totally in agreement, and thus, they've taken the time to develop the remarkable tapSTICK. Put simply, this 3rd-gen iPod shuffle case protects one's player from the elements while adding hard buttons that simulate the commands on Apple's own VoiceOver-friendly earbuds. The result? An MP3 player that's not partial to lackluster white 'buds, not to mention one that you can actually control with relative ease. Too bad it'll cost you $29.99, but we suppose that's the going rate these days to extinguish frustration. Full release is after the break.

Continue reading Scosche tapSTICK adds hard buttons, purpose to new iPod shuffle

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Scosche tapSTICK adds hard buttons, purpose to new iPod shuffle originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 06 Jun 2009 14:42:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ipodipod accessoryipod shuffleIpodAccessoryIpodShufflemade for ipodMadeForIpodportable audioportableaudioScoschetapstickvoiceoverSat, 06 Jun 2009 14:42:00 EST<![CDATA[Ozaki iCommand Controller bridges the iPod shuffle / headphone divide]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/04/ozaki-icommand-controller-bridges-the-ipod-shuffle-headphone-d/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/04/ozaki-icommand-controller-bridges-the-ipod-shuffle-headphone-d/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/04/ozaki-icommand-controller-bridges-the-ipod-shuffle-headphone-d/#comments
We've seen USB adapters and chocolate-flavored cases, but we're guessing this is the iPod shuffle 3G accessory most folks have been waiting for: an adapter that'll finally let you use your headphones of choice with the diminutive player. While its glossy, seemingly plasticky finish doesn't quite match up with the shuffle itself, it looks Oazki's iCommand Controller will get the job done, with it packing some tiny volume controls on one side and play/pause/track controls on the other, plus that all important proprietary magic inside.. No word on a price just yet, unfortunately, but you can get a closer look at it courtesy of iLounge at the link below.

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Ozaki iCommand Controller bridges the iPod shuffle / headphone divide originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 17:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ipodipod shuffleipod shuffle 3gIpodShuffleIpodShuffle3gozakiozaki icommandozaki icommand controllerOzakiIcommandOzakiIcommandControllerportable audioportableaudioThu, 04 Jun 2009 17:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Keepin' it real fake, part CCXIV: Fake iPod shuffle offers most of the minimalism, none of the perks]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/28/keepin-it-real-fake-part-ccxiv-fake-ipod-shuffle-offers-most/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/28/keepin-it-real-fake-part-ccxiv-fake-ipod-shuffle-offers-most/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/28/keepin-it-real-fake-part-ccxiv-fake-ipod-shuffle-offers-most/#comments
The current generation iPod shuffle is a funny beast in its own right, but the "Clip-On Mp3 Shuffler Player" from Digital Rise really takes the form factor to new comic heights. There appear to be two physical buttons, a presumptive hold switch, and no headphone controls to speak of. At the same time, the player packs in FM radio, audio recording, an equalizer, a bevy of playback modes and even tempo adjustment. We're sure Digital Rise has solved the usability problems here with unwavering elegance.

[Via PMP Today]

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Keepin' it real fake, part CCXIV: Fake iPod shuffle offers most of the minimalism, none of the perks originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 28 May 2009 02:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>fakefake shuffleFakeShuffleipodipod shuffleipod shuffle 3gIpodShuffleIpodShuffle3gkeepin it real fakeKeepinItRealFakekirfportable audioportableaudioshuffleThu, 28 May 2009 02:45:00 EST<![CDATA[ChocoShuffle iPod shuffle case could be chocolate, could be laxative]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/08/chocoshuffle-ipod-shuffle-case-could-be-chocolate-could-be-laxa/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/08/chocoshuffle-ipod-shuffle-case-could-be-chocolate-could-be-laxa/http://www.engadget.com/2009/05/08/chocoshuffle-ipod-shuffle-case-could-be-chocolate-could-be-laxa/#comments Just because you can fit Apple's tiny iPod shuffle into just about any orifice doesn't mean you should. The ChocoShuffle by SwitchEasy costs ¥980 (about $10) in Japan. But seriously, is that all your dignity is worth?

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ChocoShuffle iPod shuffle case could be chocolate, could be laxative originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 08 May 2009 05:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecasechocolatechocoshuffleipod shuffleIpodShuffleportable audioportableaudioswitcheasyFri, 08 May 2009 05:32:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Blade Runner starring the iPod shuffle and Kindle 2]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/24/video-blade-runner-staring-the-ipod-shuffle-and-kindle-2/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/24/video-blade-runner-staring-the-ipod-shuffle-and-kindle-2/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/24/video-blade-runner-staring-the-ipod-shuffle-and-kindle-2/#comments You've probably heard the text-to-speech capabilities of the Amazon Kindle 2 and iPod shuffle by now. But you probably haven't heard them act out Leon's VK test from Blade Runner. Check the newest nerd-legend after the break, then come back and tell us about your mothers.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Continue reading Video: Blade Runner starring the iPod shuffle and Kindle 2

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Video: Blade Runner starring the iPod shuffle and Kindle 2 originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 24 Apr 2009 05:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>amazonappleblade runnerBladeRunneripod shuffleIpodShufflekindle 2Kindle2portable audioportableaudiovideoFri, 24 Apr 2009 05:25:00 EST<![CDATA[$22 iPod Shuffle shocker: components tiny, inexpensive]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/13/22-ipod-shuffle-shocker-components-tiny-inexpensive/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/13/22-ipod-shuffle-shocker-components-tiny-inexpensive/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/13/22-ipod-shuffle-shocker-components-tiny-inexpensive/#comments
When iSuppli recently reported that the parts and packaging of the iPod Shuffle 3G cost only $21.77, a mere twenty-eight percent of the unit's retail price, PMP Today asked a most reasonable question: Where are the new Shuffle KIRFs? According to Business Week, Samsung is making a killing on these things, supplying not only the unit's ARM-based processor ($5.98), but the storage ($6) on at least a few of the units as well. The lithium ion battery, described by iSuppli as "the smallest we've ever seen," has an asking price of $1.20. As for things like capacitors and resistors, they're being described as "about the size of a grain of salt" and cost fractions of a penny each. Of course, none of this takes into account things like paying engineers and designers, and royalties paid to patents owned by other companies. Not that the KIRFsters of Shenzhen worry about these sorts of things. Maybe the wherewithal required to produce a phony Shuffle is (for the time being) beyond the capabilities of the pirates? Or maybe they're just having too much fun cranking out NOKLAs.

Read - iPod Shuffle 3G Costs $22 to Make: Where are the Clones?
Read - Deconstructing Apple's Tiny iPod Shuffle


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$22 iPod Shuffle shocker: components tiny, inexpensive originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 10:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applearmipod shuffleIpodShuffleiSuppliportable audioportableaudiosamsungshuffletear downtear-downTearDownMon, 13 Apr 2009 10:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple releases iPod Shuffle VoiceOver Kit 1.0.1 upgrade]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/10/apple-releases-ipod-shuffle-voiceover-kit-1-0-1-upgrade/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/10/apple-releases-ipod-shuffle-voiceover-kit-1-0-1-upgrade/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/10/apple-releases-ipod-shuffle-voiceover-kit-1-0-1-upgrade/#comments

You know what really gets on our nerves? When we're listening to Van der Graaf Generator (look it up!) on our newfangled iPod Shuffle and it pronounces the band's name wrong. Seriously, this is an important function. Without it working flawlessly, how are we going to know the names of the tracks we purchased on the iTunes store and placed on the device ourselves? Thankfully, someone at Apple has heard our prayers, and as of today the VoiceOver Kit 1.0.1 is available via Mac OS X software update (we're assuming that it'll pop up on the company's website at some point). The 17MB download corrects pronunciations for several artist names, as well as correcting a few "minor bugs." What bugs? Apple hasn't said. They also haven't said which names will now be pronounced correctly in that cold, robotic voice, but we're keeping our fingers crossed that Klaatu is among them. Remember Klaatu? They were pretty sweet.

Apple releases iPod Shuffle VoiceOver Kit 1.0.1 upgrade originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Apr 2009 21:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleipodipod shuffleIpodShufflevoiceoverVoiceOver Kit 1.0.1VoiceoverKit1.0.1Fri, 10 Apr 2009 21:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Ask Engadget: Best tiny MP3 player for exercise enthusiasts?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/10/ask-engadget-best-tiny-mp3-player-for-exercise-enthusiasts/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/10/ask-engadget-best-tiny-mp3-player-for-exercise-enthusiasts/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/10/ask-engadget-best-tiny-mp3-player-for-exercise-enthusiasts/#commentsNo need to twist your dial -- you really have just stumbled upon this week's episode of Ask Engadget. You know, the place where you can send in your question to ask at engadget dawt com and hope to see it plastered for the world to have a think on. This week we've got one from J.S., so we'll let him take it from here:

"The new iPod shuffle is so small you can simply clip it onto your shirt while running or working out. However, I'd never buy it because of two reasons: iTunes and the fact that I'd have to get a new pair of headphones that has the Shuffle controls or use the subpar included ones. So, what's the best small (close to Shuffle-sized) MP3 player for a gym rat like me that doesn't require iTunes?"

We've no doubt that legions of you fitness freaks can chime in here, so next time you take a breather, drop some knowledge in comments below.

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Ask Engadget: Best tiny MP3 player for exercise enthusiasts? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 10 Apr 2009 01:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>askask engadgetAskEngadgetaudioearbudsearphonesexercisefeaturesfitnessgymheadphoneheadphonesipodipod shuffleIpodShuffleshuffleFri, 10 Apr 2009 01:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Dexim's Shu-Lip for your third-gen iPod shuffle spotted in the wilds of the internet]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/06/dexims-shu-lip-for-your-third-gen-ipod-shuffle-spotted-in-the-w/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/06/dexims-shu-lip-for-your-third-gen-ipod-shuffle-spotted-in-the-w/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/06/dexims-shu-lip-for-your-third-gen-ipod-shuffle-spotted-in-the-w/#comments

No, it's not the most terrifically exciting accessory we've ever come across -- but Dexim's Shu-Lip, which plugs into the end of your new iPod shuffle -- conveniently converting it into a thumb drive, is no longer just a render. We'll admit that something about the little guy kind of screams "super cute." It's a bit pricier than we'd first heard -- but $16 is still a really sweet deal, right? Right?

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Dexim's Shu-Lip for your third-gen iPod shuffle spotted in the wilds of the internet originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 06 Apr 2009 15:14:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appledeximdexim shu-lipdexim shulipDeximShu-lipDeximShulipipodipod shuffleIpodShuffleportable audioportableaudioshu-lipshuffleshulipMon, 06 Apr 2009 15:14:00 EST<![CDATA[iPod shuffle 3G pumping up the jams a little too hard at the gym?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/03/ipod-shuffle-3g-pumping-up-the-jams-a-little-too-hard-at-the-gym/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/03/ipod-shuffle-3g-pumping-up-the-jams-a-little-too-hard-at-the-gym/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/03/ipod-shuffle-3g-pumping-up-the-jams-a-little-too-hard-at-the-gym/#comments Seeing as a good number of people pick up iPod shuffles for use while working out, this might be a bit of an issue. An Apple thread discussion has blossomed with reports that the 3rd gen unit's gone sentient and is maxing out the volume while users are doing cardio. The conjecture is that its volume control-equipped headphones might not be moisture resistant and is having averse reactions to sweat. Of course, we could take the "it's a feature, not a bug approach" and assume Apple's simply added a hidden sweat detector to crank it based on the workout intensity. This all may be much ado about nothing, but be sure to do your ears a favor and set the max volume via iTunes before you start your routine, just in case.

[Via iLounge]

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iPod shuffle 3G pumping up the jams a little too hard at the gym? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 03 Apr 2009 15:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g3g ipod shuffle3gIpodShufflecardiogymipodipod shuffleipod shuffle 3gIpodShuffleIpodShuffle3gportable audioportableaudioshuffleworkoutFri, 03 Apr 2009 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Scammer shuffles Apple out of 9,000 iPods]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/22/scammer-shuffles-apple-out-of-9-000-ipods/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/22/scammer-shuffles-apple-out-of-9-000-ipods/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/22/scammer-shuffles-apple-out-of-9-000-ipods/#comments
For whatever reason, Apple's iPod ends up in the middle of quite a few crimes. The latest story, however, is even more extreme than usual. Nicholas Arthur Woodhams, a 23 year old from Kalamazoo, Michigan, was recently slapped upside the gord with federal charges of fraud and money laundering after he managed to con Apple into shipping him around 9,000 iPod shuffles. As the story goes, he managed to somehow correctly guess thousands of valid shuffle serial numbers and have replacements shipped to him; once they arrived, he sold them for less than MSRP to excited buyers, all while giving Apple a prepaid VISA number that would reject the charges after he failed to send back the nonexistent "original" shuffle. It's rather amazing to us that he was able to pull this off for so long without being noticed, but even if it works for awhile, we've learned yet again that crime doesn't pay. In fact, the feds have already seized a half million bucks from one brokerage account, some real estate and a trio of vehicles. Tragic, yeah?

[Via Macworld, thanks Steve]

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Scammer shuffles Apple out of 9,000 iPods originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 22 Mar 2009 03:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecrimecriminalipodipod shuffleIpodShufflelarcenyportable audioportableaudioshufflestealstealingstolenthiefthievesSun, 22 Mar 2009 03:36:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple confirms presence of proprietary chip in shuffle headphones, licensing fee]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/16/apple-confirms-presence-of-proprietary-chip-in-shuffle-headphone/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/16/apple-confirms-presence-of-proprietary-chip-in-shuffle-headphone/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/16/apple-confirms-presence-of-proprietary-chip-in-shuffle-headphone/#comments
A flurry of news broke out over yesterday regarding the proprietary headphones required by Apple's new iPod shuffle, and now that Monday's here and everyone's back in the office, some things are starting to get cleared up. For starters, both Macworld and Boing Boing Gadgets have confirmed with Apple and various third-party vendors that the new shuffle headphones do in fact contain a proprietary control chip, and that would-be headphone makers have to pay to license it from Apple as part of the Made for iPod program. Yep, that's bad news, confirmed -- but all hope for inexpensive accessories isn't lost, as we're told that the chip isn't encrypted or otherwise locked down in any way, so it's easily cloned by companies who'd rather not pay. Still, eschewing Made for iPod certification pretty much dooms a product to niche status in the Apple universe, so it's a pretty weak consolation -- when this all shakes out, we're guessing only Apple-taxed headphones will be widely available for the shuffle, and that makes the value proposition somewhat hard to see. Just say no, people.

Read - Macworld
Read - BBG

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Apple confirms presence of proprietary chip in shuffle headphones, licensing fee originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 16 Mar 2009 16:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleheadphonesipodipod shuffleipod shuffle headphonesIpodShuffleIpodShuffleHeadphonesportable audioportableaudioMon, 16 Mar 2009 16:09:00 EST<![CDATA[Third-party iPod shuffle headphones will require Apple-licensed authentication chip]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/15/third-party-ipod-shuffle-headphones-will-require-apple-licensed/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/15/third-party-ipod-shuffle-headphones-will-require-apple-licensed/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/15/third-party-ipod-shuffle-headphones-will-require-apple-licensed/#comments
Sigh, it looks like Apple's habit of squeezing iPod accessory manufacturers for license fees has now extended to freaking headphones -- iLounge is reporting that the new iPod shuffle can only be controlled by headphones with a special hardware authentication chip. That means that third parties will have to pay Apple for the privilege of making shuffle-compatible accessories, and you can bet they'll just pass that cost right on to consumers -- we wouldn't expect any cheap headphone adapters or inexpensive replacement headphones for the littlest iPod. iLounge calls this a "nightmare scenario" for iPod fans, and we're inclined to agree -- it's one thing for Apple to require the Made For iPod certification for accessories that interface with the dock connector, but trying to lock down headphones is a sad new low, and it makes the lack of physical controls on the shuffle seem even more ridiculous. Anyone still planning on buying this thing?

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Third-party iPod shuffle headphones will require Apple-licensed authentication chip originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 15 Mar 2009 21:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleheadphonesipodipod shuffleipod shuffle headphonesIpodShuffleIpodShuffleHeadphonesportable audioportableaudioshuffleSun, 15 Mar 2009 21:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Dexim's Shu-Lip turns your new iPod shuffle into the thumb drive it's dying to be]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/13/dexims-shu-lip-turns-your-new-ipod-shuffle-into-the-thumb-drive/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/13/dexims-shu-lip-turns-your-new-ipod-shuffle-into-the-thumb-drive/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/13/dexims-shu-lip-turns-your-new-ipod-shuffle-into-the-thumb-drive/#comments
With the promising intro of "when a shuffle kisses a Mac..." we were hoping for something a bit more exciting, but we suppose Dexim's new Shu-Lip will have to do. In completely straightforward and boring fashion, the Shu-Lip is designed to plug into the end of the new iPod shuffle and transform it from miniscule DAP to completely run-of-the-mill thumb drive, replacing that clunky audio-jack-to-USB dongle that the shuffle comes with. Naturally, with such short notice from Apple, it seems like Dexim merely has the renders and a price locked down so far -- the Shu-Lip will ship for $10 whenever it's ready.

[Via iLounge]

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Dexim's Shu-Lip turns your new iPod shuffle into the thumb drive it's dying to be originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Mar 2009 12:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>deximipodipod shuffleIpodShuffleportable audioportableaudioshu-lipshuffleFri, 13 Mar 2009 12:36:00 EST<![CDATA[iPod shuffle teardown: guts weigh just 10% more than sheet of paper]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/13/ipod-shuffle-teardown-guts-weigh-just-10-more-than-sheet-of-pa/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/13/ipod-shuffle-teardown-guts-weigh-just-10-more-than-sheet-of-pa/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/13/ipod-shuffle-teardown-guts-weigh-just-10-more-than-sheet-of-pa/#comments
Regular readers, you know the drill: interesting product introduced, product splayed wide for nerdgasm pulp. iFixIt has the honors again, this time aiming its Xacto at the new iPod shuffle. After the usual struggle to open Apple's un-serviceable (by consumers) gear, iFixIt notes that the functioning parts of the 3rd gen shuffle weigh only 10% more than a single sheet of letter-sized paper. Hit that read link for the visual gore -- pretty amazing stuff at this scale.

[Via 9to5 Mac]

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iPod shuffle teardown: guts weigh just 10% more than sheet of paper originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 13 Mar 2009 02:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleifixitipod shuffleIpodShuffleportable audioportableaudiotear downtear-downTearDownFri, 13 Mar 2009 02:52:00 EST<![CDATA[New iPod shuffle first hands-on (with video!)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/12/new-ipod-shuffle-first-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/12/new-ipod-shuffle-first-hands-on/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/12/new-ipod-shuffle-first-hands-on/#comments
We just nabbed one of Apple's new button-free iPod shuffles, and in case you were wondering: yes, it's really small. We're gonna play around a bit with the VoiceOver navigation and get you our full impressions in a few, but at first glance we think this is totally usable, especially for the shuffle's sweaty target demographic. Also: it's really small.

Update: In-depth impressions are after the break, along with video!

Gallery: New iPod shuffle first hands-on


Gallery: New iPod shuffle unboxing and close-ups

Continue reading New iPod shuffle first hands-on (with video!)

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New iPod shuffle first hands-on (with video!) originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Mar 2009 12:48:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleengadget videoEngadgetVideofeatureshands-onipodipod shuffleIpodShuffleportable audioportableaudiovoiceoverThu, 12 Mar 2009 12:48:00 EST<![CDATA[So it begins: Klipsch, Scosche unveil VoiceOver-compatible iPod shuffle earbuds]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/12/so-it-begins-klipsch-scosche-unveil-voiceover-compatible-ipod/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/12/so-it-begins-klipsch-scosche-unveil-voiceover-compatible-ipod/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/12/so-it-begins-klipsch-scosche-unveil-voiceover-compatible-ipod/#comments
We knew we'd be hearing more about all those third party VoiceOver-compatible headphones today, and sure enough, the flood has begun. In an admittedly cute attempt to be first out of the gate, Klipsch has pushed out a woefully underwhelming release that simply assures consumers that it is currently working up a set of earbuds for Apple's latest iPod shuffle, and that said 'buds will be available to purchase sometime this summer for $99.99. In other, more tangible news, Scosche has announced (full release is after the break) actual products that'll play nice with the aforementioned DAP: the IDR350M, IDR450M and IDR650M noise isolating earphones. All three of these also include a built-in microphone for recording voice memos, and if all goes well, they'll be shipping this Spring for $49.99 to $99.99.

Continue reading So it begins: Klipsch, Scosche unveil VoiceOver-compatible iPod shuffle earbuds

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So it begins: Klipsch, Scosche unveil VoiceOver-compatible iPod shuffle earbuds originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 12 Mar 2009 09:52:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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The new iPod shuffle, explained. originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Mar 2009 17:22:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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We were wondering why the new voice-enabled iPod shuffle even has a standard 3.5mm headphone jack since it's controlled by proprietary headphones, and we just got the answer: non-Apple headphones will require a special dongle that includes the new three-button controller, and Apple says it's working with third parties to bring other compatible 'phones to market. Yes, Apple's cheapest iPod is now the most needlessly complex, and far from cost-effective if you want to use your own cans: assuming the adapter will cost between $20 and $30 like most other Apple accessories, you're looking at minimum $100 outlay for the new shuffle, and at that point you might as well pick up a $150 iPod nano, which is also VoiceOver-enabled in addition to having twice the storage, dongle-less controls, a screen, and numerous other features. We'll see if this thing is so tiny these concerns wash out when we get one in our hands, but does anyone actually feel like the numbers tip in favor of the shuffle here? We're all ears.

P.S.- Yes, we know $100 can get you any number of fine non-Apple players, we're just talking about Apple's price points. Feel free to suggest your favorite alternative, though!

Update: Apple called to clarify that the nano doesn't have the exact same VoiceOver feature, which is shuffle-exclusive; the nano does "spoken menus" but doesn't say track names as you skip around. We're getting a full list of differences between the two systems, we'll let you know if there's anything else major.

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New iPod shuffle requires extra adapter for third-party headphones originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Mar 2009 13:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleipodipod shuffleIpodShuffleportable audioportable videoportableaudioportablevideoWed, 11 Mar 2009 13:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple's redesigned iPod shuffle hits 4GB, talks to you (updated with video!)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/11/apples-ipod-shuffle-hits-4gb/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/11/apples-ipod-shuffle-hits-4gb/http://www.engadget.com/2009/03/11/apples-ipod-shuffle-hits-4gb/#comments
Bam, another Apple rumor vindicated. Apple just doubled the capacity of its iPod shuffle to 4GB while ditching the control wheel entirely. The new design keeps the clip and adds VoiceOver -- a new feature that gets around the lack of display by telling you which song is playing and who performs it at the touch of a button on the earbud cable. It'll also call out your playlists and let you navigate to others. Available in black or silver for $80 and your claim to what Apple calls the "world's smallest music player." Check the video tutorial after the break.

Update: VoiceOver in English, Czech, Dutch, French, German, Greek, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin Chinese, Polish, Portuguese, Spanish, Swedish and Turkish.

Gallery: Apple iPod shuffle

Continue reading Apple's redesigned iPod shuffle hits 4GB, talks to you (updated with video!)

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Apple's redesigned iPod shuffle hits 4GB, talks to you (updated with video!) originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Mar 2009 08:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Yeah, we know, the Apple Store's down. We had presumed it to be regular maintenance since it's not Tuesday and there's not a single Apple rumor in the mix that would warrant such a quiet product launch. Then we peeped MacRumors and low and behold Arn's got a source claiming 4GB iPod shuffles (up from 2GB) are on the way in black, silver, and possibly other colors. Makes sense to us.

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Apple store down: 4GB iPod shuffle on the way? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 11 Mar 2009 07:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleapple storeAppleStoreipod shuffleIpodShuffleportable audioportableaudiorumorWed, 11 Mar 2009 07:21:00 EST<![CDATA[Luxpro finally countersues Apple over the Super Tangent iPod shuffle clone]]>http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/17/luxpro-finally-countersues-apple-for-killing-the-super-tangent-i/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/17/luxpro-finally-countersues-apple-for-killing-the-super-tangent-i/http://www.engadget.com/2008/10/17/luxpro-finally-countersues-apple-for-killing-the-super-tangent-i/#commentsHey, remember the Luxpro Super Shuffle / Super Tangent? That Taiwanese KIRF of the original iPod shuffle? Back in 2005 it ruffled some feathers in Cupertino with an appearance at CeBIT, went under a slight redesign, and was eventually brought to court by Apple's lawyers, prompting Luxpro to vow vengeance -- and nearly two years later, it's finally filed that promised countersuit against Apple. The suit alleges that Apple uses unfair tactics to squash competitors as part of its "unending aspiration" to maintain a monopoly in the PMP game, and throws in a dash of that never-works iTunes-tying argument for good measure. Luxpro also says the Super Tangent was "obviously" different than the original iPod shuffle (uh, sure) and that Apple was just being a bully when it tried to get the Super Shuffle removed from trade shows and importer lists. We'll see how this one plays out -- we've got a feeling it'll end pretty quickly.

[Thanks, Mark]

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Luxpro finally countersues Apple over the Super Tangent iPod shuffle clone originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 17 Oct 2008 13:21:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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