DockConnector
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iControlPad to use Bluetooth instead of dock connector
It's supposedly already headed into production, but it looks like the iControlPad is still undergoing a few last minute changes. The group behind the iPhone game controller peripheral has just announced that the device will actually use Bluetooth instead of an Apple dock connector -- a change that's apparently being done in part due to Apple's recent litigation with Hypermac, and to avoid any actual licensing issues. As you might expect from such a small project, that's also put the team in something of a bind, and they're now looking for help from folks experienced with using Bluetooth in iOS. Of course, while the device is being pitched as an iPhone peripheral to start, there's also been support for other phones promised, and it's now been officially confirmed that those other phones will include Android phones with Bluetooth.
Next-generation iPod touch and nano accessories and rumors continue to surface
We're but a few days away from Apple's music-related "special event," and naturally the bloody rumors are being tossed into the water, frothing up into quite a feeding frenzy. Last week came talk of new iPod touch and nano models, and now we have even more cases and accessories that seem to back up the belief that there's a fourth-generation touch and a sixth-generation nano coming. The nano is rumored to have a 3 x 3cm touchscreen (presumably this one) and room on the bottom for a proper dock connector, ensuring compatibility with the millions of iPod cradles and whatnot out there. The new cases we're seeing certainly back up that idea, with a dock-sized cut-out along with room for what's said to be a headphone jack, volume controls, a hold button, and a clip 'round the back. At the moment we know rather less about the new touch, but we can hazard a guess as to what it'll look like. [Thanks, Hobbsy101]
Apple iPad Dock Connector to VGA Adapter not accomplishing the simplest of tasks
Look, there's no arguing that Apple charges a boatload for its first-party adapters, and this isn't the first time that one of those overpriced dongles has caused an uproar (Mini DisplayPort to Dual-Link DVI Adapter, anyone?). But when the company trots out an iPad Dock Connector to VGA Adapter and promises to enable users to "see their videos and slideshows on the big screen," it should probably make a few clarifications. Instead, more than a handful of consumers are revolting over on Apple's own webstore, noting that any video laced in any type of DRM (iTunes flicks and Netflix streams included) won't output at all. Contrary to popular belief, this adapter doesn't actually mirror the iPad's display, which is fairly absurd in our eyes -- teachers are even stating that Apple's own Pages and Keynote apps won't output via the dongle, making this effectively worthless for blowing up presentations for all to see. We (sort of) get the DRM thing, but not including support in your own presentation app? Unacceptable. A tipster has noted that Apple informed him that "it's up to the app makers to enable the video out function," so we suppose all that's needed to solve a lot of controversy is for some switch to be flipped in some direction. Any other hang-ups with this thing that the world should know about? Drop 'em in comments below. [Thanks, Tony] Update: A few tipsters have noted that Keynote does in fact work here. Here's a growing list of what does and doesn't work with the adapter.
iPad Camera Connection Kit finally surfaces for pre-order, still absurdly overpriced
If you'll recall, Apple had no qualms revealing the iPad Camera Connection Kit at its 'Latest Creation' event back in January, but the solution seemingly dropped from the face of the Earth shortly thereafter. Even as cases, keyboards and all sorts of other iPad accessories surfaced for pre-order, the camera kit remained nowhere to be found. Over the weekend, the $29 adapter bundle finally found a home at the outfit's website (with a "late April" ship date), offering users a pair of dongles to support USB and SD cards. Of course, one could easily argue that the iPad should have native support for both of these widely used formats without forcing users to lug around two extra peripherals, but if that were the case, this thing just wouldn't be an Apple, now would it? %Gallery-89227%
New Potato's FLPR IR dongle gives your iPhone home automation capabilities
It's hard to say why we've seen a glut of these adapters hit all within the same week, but hey, the more the merrier! North Carolina's own New Potato Technologies (yes, we're serious) has followed up on ThinkFlood and Power A's efforts by introducing an Infrared iPhone / iPod touch dongle of its own. The difference? This one connects to the dock connector, and when used with the accompanying app, it can control lights, stereo systems, home cinemas and pretty much anything that allows dictation via IR. The best part just might be said app, as it allows users to search a database of over 14,000 device codes and just add the products they already own, which means that you'll probably only be stuck programming that LaserDisc player you refuse to give up. It'll start shipping today from the company's own website for $79.99, or you can consult the middleman (read: Best Buy) on starting on March 28th.
Apple's iPad keyboard dock, case and other accessories get the hands-on treatment
Apple didn't give us a great amount of time with its newly unveiled iPad today, and as you've likely seen, we spent the bulk of our allotment touching the unit itself. Lost in the proverbial shuffle were a number of the unit's launch accessories, including the admittedly intriguing keyboard dock ($69), case ($39), iPad Dock Connector to VGA adapter ($29) and camera connection kit ($29). Each of these doodads seem to look and feel exactly as you'd expect 'em to, though we're still baffled by Apple's decision to make you pay extra for access to the world's most widely accepted connector. We're also somewhat appalled (but not surprised) by the $39 price tag purportedly attached to the stripped-down case, and while the $69 MSRP on the keyboard dock is apt to cause some grumbling, at least there are a few iPad-specific keys on there to make it (marginally) worth your while. Dig in below for more on each. Read - iPad keyboard dock hands-on Read - iPad case hands-on Read - iPad Dock Connector to VGA adapter hands-on Read - iPad camera connection kit hands-on
Kensington's iPhone / iPod charging dock throws a mini battery into the mix
At this point, you've probably assumed that there's simply no way any company can produce yet another iPhone or iPod dock that's significantly different from the legions of alternatives already out. And you're wrong. So wrong. In an effort to milk that Made for iPod / iPhone partnership for all it's worth, Kensington has just introduced its Charging Dock with Mini Battery Pack, which not only charges your dock connecting iPod or iPhone, but also energizes an external battery pack through the same USB cable. When you leave, you'll depart with a charged device as well as a charged battery pack in case you need to use 3G services for more than eight minutes. Brilliant, no? It's up for pre-order now for $69.99.[Via iPodNN]
Ridax first company to overprice Phone 3G charging adapter
Although the 30-pin Dock connector in the iPhone 3G looks the same as it has since it was introduced in the 2G iPod, it's different in one important (and maddening) way -- it doesn't support charging the older FireWire charging pins, only the newer USB method. That means a whole host of older chargers and docks don't work with the iPhone 3G -- and it also means that we'll be seeing a lot of adapters like this one from Ridax make the scene. Hopefully other manufacturers won't see fit to charge a whopping $40 for two connectors and a resistor like Ridax, but if you're desperate enough to drop two Jacksons on this thing, you'll also be able to charge through the built-in mini-USB connector on the side. We'll wait, though -- we expect to see some cheaper, smaller options on the table by the time this thing ships in September.
Ridax first company to overprice iPhone 3G charging adapter
Although the 30-pin Dock connector in the iPhone 3G looks the same as it has since it was introduced in the 2G iPod, it's different in one important (and maddening) way -- it doesn't support charging the older FireWire charging pins, only the newer USB method. That means a whole host of older chargers and docks don't work with the iPhone 3G -- and it also means that we'll be seeing a lot of adapters like this one from Ridax make the scene. Hopefully other manufacturers won't see fit to charge a whopping $40 for two connectors and a resistor like Ridax, but if you're desperate enough to drop two Jacksons on this thing, you'll also be able to charge through the built-in mini-USB connector on the side. We'll wait, though -- we expect to see some cheaper, smaller options on the table by the time this thing ships in September.
Modder stuffs microphone into iPod touch dock appendage
Just under a fortnight ago, we found that the audio input pins on the iPod touch were indeed active and able to record audio. Now, a modder has constructed a smallish dock appendage that plugs directly into the touch and enables you to input audio. Apparently, the gizmo sports a built-in microphone and pre-amp, which could theoretically be used in VoIP applications or for recording simple voice notes. It seems as though the creator is offering these up to anyone interested, but you'll have to drop him an email to find out how much such an accessory will run you.[Via Digg, thanks RadicalxEdward]Update: RadicalxEdward let us know it's going to go for €30 (including US shipping) when it's up for sale, whenever that is.
Dock your iPod on your Vespa
My wife and I took our honeymoon in Italy a few years ago, and those Vespa scooters were absolutely everywhere. When we returned home, I said, "I want one of those Vespas," but it just didn't seem to have the same panache here in the states. Plus, I'm likely to get crushed by an SUV. Still, I think about them from time to time, especially when I see one with an integrated iPod dock.The Stereo Kit by Scooterworks is a $300US kit that includes an amp, two 4-inch Alpine speakers, replacement glove box door with pre-cut holes, and a cradle/connector. They send you the kit, and you put it in. The Stereo Kit works with the Vespa Stella and P-series models.Now I want a Vespa again.[Via Engadget]
