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Analysts predict 4GB and 8GB iPod nanos with video
Take the following information with the usual grain of salt; when it comes to speculation about Apple's intentions, nothing is ever certain until the esteemed Mr. Jobs is on stage, product in hand, delivering the pitch. This time around, we have word from AppleInsider that American Technology Research analysts are reporting that their most recent "checks" indicate impending capacity doubling for the iPod nano line-- to 4GB and 8GB -- as well as the addition of "basic video capabilities," in models to be released during the "September quarter." If true, none of these developments would be all that shocking, as the current nanos already have sharp little color screens, and storage boosts are just a natural part of any digital audio player's lifecycle. ATR's Shaw Wu also seemingly contradicted earlier AppleInsider info when he cited an anticipated June/July release window for the as-yet-unannounced 13.3-inch Intel-powered Macbook laptop, which AI had previously suggested would be available sometime before June.
His noodly appendage touched my iPod
As a fan of the Flying Spaghetti Monster (that's FSM to true believers), I was delighted when TUAW reader Eric sent us this tip. GelaSkins sells adhesive iPod skins, including two of the FSM himself. In fact, they've got quite a nice collection of skins, all removable and made of high-quality vinyl. Skins are available for the iPod, iPod nano, iPod mini and 4G iPod. They all cost $14.95, and you get one free when you buy three.
Samsung wins PortalPlayer's old contract
Well, that didn't take long. Just seven days after Apple announced that they wouldn't be buying iPod media chips from PortalPlayer anymore, Samsung has been identified as the succeeding manufacturer. Presumably, the chips that Samsung has been hired to produce will power future iPod nanos with increased capacity. Congratulations, Samsung...now get to it.[Via Engadget]
Apple legal sends little girl running, crying to room
So as the story goes, eight year old Shea was learning to write letters in her third grade class; Shea also happened to be really into her iPod nano. So she decided to hit up Stevie J. with a list of her ideas on how to improve the nano -- you know, standard stuff like "slip a little chip" in there to add support for lyrics, movies, etc. (what, don't you want to officially play Doom, too, or at least Pac-Man?). After three months Shea received a reply from Cupertino... signed by Apple's Senior Counsel, Mark Aaker, who put the little girl in her place by stating "please do not send" suggestions, and letting her know Apple doesn't accept unsolicited ideas. Said Shea, who went running to her room, "It was kind of like they were saying, 'Oh, we don't want your idea -- it's not good or anything.'" (Hey, don't feel bad, whenever we write about improving Apple's products we tend to get harshed on too.) While the story didn't exactly end happily, at least Aaker called the little girl to personally apologize, but not before holding a meeting to change policies regarding responses to letters from children. And just for that, all of our staff's children will be swarming Apple with letters on such varied topics from Apple's potentially increased market share with Boot Camp, to the mysterious video iPod -- replete with backwards Es and Ss.[Via Cult of Mac]
Track your billable hours with On The Job
If you've got the type of job that requires you to track your billable hours, check out On The Job by Stunt Software. It's got a very iTunes-like interface and makes tracking the tasks associated with a given job really easy. Simply create one folder per job, and store the associated tasks inside. Click the "Play" button when you clock in, and the meter starts running. Click it again, and it stops (See? Easy). On The Job even creates a nice invoice that you can print with a click (Ok, two clicks).It's pretty nice, and a single license will cost you $24.95 (requires Mac OS 10.3.9 or later). Incidentally, Stunt Software is giving away one iPod nano at the end of April, as well as 30 free licenses for On The Job (one every day in April). That should make work a little more tolerable.
DLO introduces the nanoTune
DLO today announced the availability of the nanoTune, an accessory for the iPod nano that's designed to fill several roles. When connected to your nano, the nanoTune acts as protective case, FM transmitter, FM radio and headphone amplifier (DLO claims a 25% increase in volume, to the delight of audiologists everywhere). It will also connect to your car charger or Apple dock via the built in 30 pin connector.It seems to add a good amount of bulk to the otherwise sleek nano, but the pictures on the site are kind of small. You can grab one for $69.99US.
Apple rewards college-bound seniors
Attention, college-bound high school seniors: Apple is currently looking for 10 recipients of its scholarship program. The students who demonstrate the most innovative use of technology in academics will receive $2,000 (which should just about cover your books, actually), plus a MacBook Pro and an iPod nano! To enter, you must be a high school student who will attend a 2-year or 4-year accredited college or university in the fall of 2006, and a legal resident of the U.S. Good luck!Thanks, Matt!
Tie with secret iPod nano pocket
If you just can't bear to put your nano in your pocket or man-bag, luckily there is a third choice: Thomas Pink's Commuter Tie. On the back side of the tie is a secret pocket to house your iPod nano complete with a flat mounted loop of fabric to hold your headphone wires out of sight. I'm guessing you then thread the headphone wires through the top of the tie and up to your ears.The Commuter Tie is available in what looks like hot pink in this image (cropped to show the secret pocket up close), or in a sort of salmon orange on another image on Thomas Pink's U.K.-based website. I imagine those of you crafty enough could bust out the thread and fabric scraps and add this to just about any tie.[via iLounge]
1GB nano screen dimmer than others
Not like this is that big of a deal -- but iLounge reviewed the 1GB iPod nano, and while they find it to be pretty much the same gizmo as its more robust brethren (obviously), they do point out one minor difference: the backlight doesn't seem to be as bright as the other nanos.I can't confirm this and neither can Engadget, but c'mon: Would iLounge lie? Nahh.If you have one of these nano-y doohickies and would care to share your observations, please post 'em in the comments![via Engadget]
1GB iPod nano for $149
I don't know yet if this is the only reason the Apple Store was down earlier today, but in any case, they've just announced a new 1GB iPod nano for $149 and the iPod shuffle now starts at $69 for the 512MB model and $99 for the 1GB model. I would have preferred a $99 1GB iPod nano and that they just trash the 1GB shuffle, but, whatever...
Apple to iPod nano service providers: Fix cracked screens
Apple has stepped up to the plate regarding cracked screens on iPod nano's. Here at TUAW Jan reported on the screen cracking issues back in September of last year. If you have a 5G iPod and not a nano, hardware failure such as cracked screens should be covered if you are under warranty. Now it seems Apple will replace the screens free of charge on the iPod nano's on a case by case basis.This repair coverage should be taken care of at both Apple stores and Apple certified service providers. Let us know if you hear otherwise![via Engadget]
Apple to kill the iPod shuffle?
CNN Money is pointing to a statement by UBS analyst Ben Reitzes, who believes that the iPod shuffle may be replaced by a competitively priced, 1GB iPod nano. He's banging the "it doesn't have a screen" drum, but I really don't mind.I love my shuffle, and take it with me on short trips to the grocery store, walking the dog, etc. I know exactly what's on it because I choose to feed it manually (as opposed to auto fill), and it's really nice to not have to worry about scratches, etc. If my shuffle gets scuffed up, who cares? It's the utilitarian member of the iPod family (now that the mini is gone). I drop it into a coat or shirt pocket or hang it from my keys (see image above) without giving it a second thought. For me, that's the main appeal of the thing. If I had a 1GB nano it its place, I'd be treating it with kid gloves. I think the iPod family has to retain at least one rough-and-tumble member.[Via Macsimum News]
mTune-N headset now shipping
Back in November, we wrote about the mTune-N, Macally's headset with an integrated iPod nano dock. The iPod's clickwheel remains exposed while docked, allowing you to have full control of its functions. Macally has announced this week that the mTune-N will ship in "early February" in both the US and the UK for $49.99US and £40, respectively. Just in time for Valentine's Day![Via Reg Hardware]
Griffin ships iTrip for iPod nano
Griffin Technology announced the new iTrip for the iPod nano a couple of months ago. The good news is that it's now shipping. This baby is billed as the most advanced iTrip ever. The new design is sled-like to avoid bulking up the profile of your iPod nano. You just slide your iPod nano into the iTrip's slim body. Station info is displayed directly on the iPod nano's LCD screen. This iTrip also has "Smart Sense" volume control that automatically adjusts volume for optimal quality. You can select stereo or mono (to get you through rough reception spots). And you can charge or sync your iPod nano while connected through the iTrip's built-in USB port. Retail price from Griffin Technology is $49.99. How much do you want one?
iPod tops Execs fav gadget list
Forbes has pulled together a list of executives' favorite gadgets and the iPod is top on the list. While this is great news for Apple (execs have lots of money so they can afford to buy the newest iPod model at any given time) is anyone else is a little concerned about the iPod's popularity?I know that may sound odd, but what happens when everyone has an iPod? Will it bring peace on Earth?
Hello Kitty wants to protect your nano
The picture isn't the greatest, but the cuteness of Hello Kitty still packs a punch. Krunker tells us that these Hello Kitty themed adhesive protectors for your nano are available in Japan in 4 different varieties.
We have a winner...
In case you haven't had a chance to listen to this week's podcast yet, we have a winner in our contest. We received lots of really good entries, but, as we all know from years of Highlander movies and television shows: there can be only one. That one is narco, who entered the contest with the entry found here.
