iPod boombox in the wings?

Those wacky guys at Apple Insider say that Apple will release some new digital audio products dubbed "iPod companions" early next year. One of those products is said to be an iPod boombox. According to Apple Insider's sources, this boombox will be "unlike anything seen in the boombox world" and different from "anything Apple has released in the past." It's not clear what this device will be, but Apple Insider says it could be an oversized iPod with boombox-like speakers, which Apple plans to market as "plug and play music for your home." It may have wireless audio streaming capability, a built-in hard drive, an iPod dock, or all three.

This and other iPod companion products are supposedly part of Apple's plan to expand its reach into the consumer electronics market in order to mine more profits. Some of these devices could be released at MacWorld in January, Apple Insider predicts.