Tech Digest

One Minute Video Review: Motorola KRZR

Here's Ashley and I looking at the Motorola KRZR, and having heaps of fun trying to figure out how you say it. There's also a respectable amount of time looking at what exactly it does. Expect it to appear in the shops in the next few weeks.

Pick up a Burning Love Pouch for your iPod

Today's silly iPod add-on comes courtesy of MP3 Additions - which has produced the Burning Love Pouch range - which isn't as sleazy as it sounds - they're actually just odd-looking iPod cases.

Made of what's described as "irresistibility soft fur" (don't worry, it's not real), the pouches have enough padding to keep your player safe from minor knocks, but their main selling point is the oddball design - turning your player into a "fashion statement" says the maker. I'll leave you to make up your own mind about that one.

If you're convinced, you can pick one up for £12.99.

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iFreq - yet another FM transmitter for iPod

  As I mentioned last week, there's an endless number of these FM transmitters hitting the market with the impending law change for use. So why should you pick up an iFreq? Well, acocrding to a recent magazine article - it's the best one you can buy when it comes to sound quality.

The iFreq has a super strength transmitter inside the connecting cable making the signal stronger than other FM transmitters - so better sound, close to the sound you would expect through your headphones. It also features a large, backlit display, simple up/down tuning ensure easy operation and a dock connector that assures wide iPod compatibility.

Available now, selling for around £40.

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Apple see (PRODUCT) RED as 'good cause' iPod nano launches

Apple have launched their latest iPod nano today, and this time it'll actually do some good to more than just Apple and your ears. Apple have joined the list of companies providing products and donating a portion of the profits their sale to the (PRODUCT) RED fund, designed to help eliminate AIDS in Africa.

Last time they released an iPod with this shade of red on it (albeit just on the scroll wheel) product it was the U2 Special Edition. Well, the U2 connection is still there - you don't get their music installed on it but Bono founded the (RED) project to raise money for the Global Fund.

Apart from its red colour, the Nano itself is a standard 4GB second-generation affair, so we won't go into the specifications again. Of course what you're supposed to do is to buy it and get a warm glow knowing that some money has gone towards a good and important cause...

How much money?

Well that's where we're not entirely sure. In the US, buying your $199 (iPod nano) RED will cause Apple to give $10 of that purchase price to the charity. However, looking on the equivalent UK page Apple will give "a portion of the purchase price".

What, are exchange rates too unstable at present? Comparing purchase prices ($199 to £129), Apple should give approximately £6.48 for each player sold in the UK, regardless of exchange rate or anything else. Maybe that odd amount would've looked a bit weird on the spec sheet - why not make it a round £6.50? or £7. Heck, make it a tenner!

Now we know companies get a certain feelgood factor by getting involved in acts Corporate Social Responsibility. I'm not knocking the giving - any is better than none - but if you're not over keen on the redness of it and you'd like to keep your giving private (like Mr Jobs, perhaps?) why not buy an ordinary nano and give separately to a charity of your choice? It'll cost you more but you'll feel really good. And you won't have a bright red (steal me) music player either.

(PRODUCT) RED web site

Review: Philips SHN9500 noise cancelling headphones

The Propaganda

The SHN 9500 noise-cancelling headphones from Philips promise to cut out 85% of background noise, so are perfect for planes, trains and automobiles. They're premium range, so expect a lot of padding. Did you not know that's what premium means? How disappointing.

Noise cancellation headphones are always pretty chunky, especially when they've got technology integrates which actually takes into account the outside noise, rather than just attempting to muffle it. These create an opposite waveform to the outside noise, and in doing so, neutralises it.  There is also a set of neodynamic magnets in the speaker drivers to deliver accurate sound

The Good

Comfort-wise, they're probably the most comfortable I've tried. There is a serious amount of padding going on on the earpieces, and there's more padding on the top of the headband. I wore them on a train for 4 hours, and they were only mildly uncomfortable by the end of it. This was despite wearing glasses, which normally makes headphones sit pressed against that particular pressure point which gives you a blinding headache.

With premium headphones come a few bells and whistles that you don't get on budget models (although admittedly there's only  a limited amount you can do with headphones). On these, you've got a mute button which will allow you to listen to things like train announcements (handy for finding out you're on the wrong train) and oncoming lorries.  There's also an adaptor for the two prong airplane jacks and a carry case. A further adaptor means you can use them with things that have both a 3.5 or a 6.5 mm jack. 

The Bad

The bad news is the noise cancelling element, which might be a problem for Philips. It's quite ineffective, making me check several times if I'd turned the switch on. I had, and yet I still had a significant amount of the tube noise. At one point I could even hear the tinny innnc-innnnc-innnnc  from the headphones of the boy next to me. 

It's supposed to be the low frequency noise that is best cancelled, and Philips quote an improvement of 85%, which means that the tube shouldn't have been a problem. Voices and sudden loud noises don't count, since the technology isn't yet that fast at neutralising, but even so. The overall effect was better than listening through something such as in-ear phones, but I suspect that this was because of all the padding around the ears.

In our opinion

These headphones are really comfortable. And they come with lots of extras. But unfortunately, the noise cancelling element isn't really up to scratch. When you've got to check that they're on, you know there' s a problem... You can however, pick up a pair for £150 at Dixons

Belkin's TuneStage II - stream your iPod's music to your Hi-Fi with Bluetooth

Belkin has another iPod accessory on the market - the Tunestage II - which promises to transmit tunes from your portable player to your Hi-Fi, courtesy of Bluetooth 2.0.

The TuneStage II captures sound signals through the player's dock connector, then sends it up to a distance of 10m. Between charges, you can do this for around 7 hours before your iPod (and TuneStage II, which is powered by the iPod) needs recharging. However, as the transmitter has a USB port, you could charge whilst playing your (i)tunes.

It's good to use with most dockable iPods and will retail in the US only in November for around $150 (£81). A European launch will follow soon after.

Belkin website

Via The Register

Sony introduces NW-S700 Walkman series with noise-cancelling technology

Probably aimed at commuters who can't stand someone shouting down their mobile phone in the next seat is the Sony Walkman NW-S700 series, available in a variety of storage sizes and colours, but all featuring noise-cancelling technology.

Sony reckons their new players can offer a reduction in ambient noise of up to 75 per cent. That's down to their unique 13.5fEX headphones which feature built-in microphones to capture, examine and neutralise surrounding noise interruptions. And to improve the music, there's also clear stereo and clear bass technologies for better sound clarity. The player itself offers an impressive 50 hours playback between charges, along with a 3-minute quick charge. It also features, direct recording (without a PC), 5-band equaliser, 3D sound and three line information display.

The choice of colours are violet, black or pink, along with 1GB, 2GB and 4GB capacities. There's also a range of player-specific accessories due on the market too, including cases, a docking system and a Bluetooth transmitter.

Expect it in the shops from November. Prices to be confirmed.

Sony Style website

iRhythms A-211 3-Piece subwoofer and satellite iPod speaker system

Another sound system for the most popular portable in the world, this time it's the iRhythms A-211 3-Piece subwoofer and satellite iPod speaker system, which has apparently been developed to match the quality of the Apple iPod HiFi - and then some.

Available in black or white, the A-211 can throw out 110 watts, along with what's described as a "thunderous bass". The powerful bass comes from an acoustically balanced chamber, along with a bass controlled down firing subwoofer with long throw voice coil. The flat panel satellite speakers are magnetically shielded and feature an acrylic finish the same as the central Subwoofer unit. A Universal Dock fits and charges all dock-connecting iPods, with an input jack opening the system up to other models of MP3 player.

Complete with remote, you can pick up the A-211 for around £150.

Find out more

Sony Walkman DCC-FMT50U FM transmitter and car charger

With FM transmitters about to go legal, I'm sure we'll see a glut of them hit the UK in the coming months (to add to the large number already in use illegally). In fact, we might see this Sony Walkman DCC-FMT50U FM transmitter and car charger, which has just launched in Japan.

There's confusion over whether it will be good with any Walkman - the specifications claim just the NW-A3000 and A1000, but that sounds a little too restrictive. It can charge any USB device and has four preset buttons for the FM transmitter.

Available in Japan now for 6,195 Yen (around £28). We'll have to wait and see if Sony brings something like this to the UK.

Sony website

Via Gizmodo

Drip-proof MP3 Radio - music while you wash

All that steam in the bathroom, can't be good for gadgets. Unless it's the Drip-proof MP3 Radio - which is a name that sells the item a bit short, because it's actually splash-proof too (for when your dancing about in the shower gets a little out of hand).

It might look like a Tomy toy, but this gadget does pack in a good amount of technology. As the name suggests, it plays your MP3 files, as well as WMA. There's 256MB of internal storage, which can be boosted via SD card. Transfer of tracks is via USB. There's also FM and AM radio, station presets and a clock (so you know if you're late for work). Output is via 2x 0.5w speakers.

Powered by 4x AA batteries (not included), you can pick it up online for $136.68, which is around £73.

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Invisible Shield clear protector for new iPod nano

  No, it's not some kind of "emporer's new clothes" wind-up, it's an invisible case case for your new iPod nano under the name Invisible Shield - which guarantees scratch protection for your new player's coloured finish for a lifetime.

The idea is simple - you've bought yourself a brightly-coloured player, so chances are you want to show that colour off. Most cases hide it away - Invisible Shield does the opposite, offering a full-body shield with four separate pieces for the screen, sides, front and back, whilst still allowing access to all ports and the hold button. So you get scratch protection without having to cover you new player.

And it's got a lifetime warranty - if the shield ever does get scratched up they'll replace it for free. Available now, priced at £16.99.

Product page

GEAR4 launches BluEye - make and receive calls on your iPod

GEAR4 has launched BluEye, which it describes as a 3-in-1 Bluetooth hands free mobile connection, FM radio and remote control for your iPod - allowing you to make and receive calls on your iPod.

This Bluetooth remote headphone system connects your mobile and iPod, so you can view phone numbers on your iPod display. The BluEye will also pause your tunes, alert you to an incoming call and then resume your music once your call is finished. There's also an FM receiver, which integrates directly with your iPod, with stations displayed on your iPod screen, so you can easily search for your favourite and save up to 15 channels as pre-sets.

You can pick it up now, priced at £49.99.

GEAR4 website

MP3 Pillow - drift off to your favourite tunes

  Yes, this MP3 Pillow actually looks like a certain brand of portable music player. But there's more - it actually plays music too.

Yes, not only is this a pillow, described as "soft and durable" by the retailer, but you can also snuggle up and listen to your favourites on it. Plug in your own music player into the hidden pocket and listen to tracks from the internal speaker - or you can listen to the built-in FM radio. And that's not all - the buttons on the pillow aren't just for show, they actually work, so you can change the volume, switch to the radio or scan for station. And there's a power off button when you finally want to drift off.

The MP3 Pillow requires AA batteries for power and retails online for $19.95.

Find out more from the Think Geek website

Classical music lovers embrace downloads too

Last month the Royal Scottish National Orchestra launched an online music service and new research from Gramophone magazine suggests it could be quite popular.

Their new research suggests that one in three classical music lovers have digital music players, download music from the Internet, and listen to digital, streaming radio as well as ripping their classical CDs. One in five legally download music, averaging 12 downloads per person.

The big services provide a reasonable amount of classical music, including iTunes and eMusic, though more specialist services will still probably be the way to go for serious classical connoisseurs. Classical music tracks are usually longer and part of collections (symphonies, for example) and they often benefit more from being encoded at a higher rate due to their dynamic range. You'll still not really notice any quality loss when travelling in noisy environments though.

(Via m4music)

Swedish Valei Computer launches PMC200 media player

Another all-action pocket medai player, this time from Swedish Valei Computer (the first I've heard of this Stockholm-based company) with the PMC200.

It's another of those players that leaves nothing to chance, including everything you could possible need, with features including a 3.5-inch screen, 16:9 aspect ratio, DivX / AVI / MPEG / DAT playback, video out (NTSC and PAL support), video recording, four hours of battery life for video (and 10 hours for audio), USB 2.0, three games, a text file reader and a 40GB hard drive.

What we don't know is the price or availability, with nothing along those lines available from the company as yet. If we hear more, we'll let you know.

Swedish Valei Computer website

Via Engadget

Arianet Play-Pod - 2GB MP3/MP4 player for under £50

Aria Technology usually specialise in retail, but they also do some own brand items - including this Play-Pod (see what they've done there?) 2GB audio/video player at less than £50.

The screen isn't the best you'll find at 128 x 128, but you get plenty of other features packed in to balance it out. There's 2GB of internal storage, along with audio and video playback, with formats suported including MP3, WMA, ASF, WMV, WAV and MP4. There's also an FM radio with 20 presets, voice recording, transfer of files via USB, plus a rechargeable lithium battery and earphones.

Available now, you can pick it up for £41.07 including VAT.

Product page

Ministry of Sound launches MOSCA104 Series in-car CD Radio with internal memory

Ministry of Sound has launched what it claims is the "next generation in digital entertainment for your car". It's actually the MOSCA104 Series, which can store around 240 tracks on its 1GB built-in flash memory.

You can record onto your MOSCA104 straight from CD or SD/MMC card with a single button press - or remove the whole faceplate and download tracks from your PC using the USB cable provided. The USB port also means you can connect your iPod or MP3 Player and play it through the system - and record straight from this device to the in-car player's memory. There's also  4 x 25 watts RMS output, FM/MW digital tuner with 30 station presets, CD-R/CD-RW/MP3 playback, remote and MOS carry case.

Available in the coming weeks, price to be confirmed.

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iPod Nano colours may fade, but that's quality says Apple

The Register has picked up on Apple's admission that the wonderful new iPod Nano colours could fade over time - and Apple are readily admitting it, at least in the small print.

"Like a fine pair of jeans, iPod Nano colours may vary and change over time." Presumably this isn't an innovative chameleon-like design that changes to match your clothing. It's slightly bemusing comparing a high-end piece of tech gear with a pair of jeans. It'll be interesting to see what colours these players end up. Do they just stop shimmering? Go patchy?

I'm not sure Apple can really expect to get away with likening a dodgy paint job to a pair of good jeans, though.

(Via The Register)

Kensington's 4-in-1 Car Charger - charge and transmit at the same time

Kensington has launched the 4 in 1 Car Charger for iPod - allowing you to sync and charge your iPod whilst still using accessories, such as FM transmitters.

The device charges any click wheel iPod or USB-powered device (for example an iPod shuffle, mobile phone or PDA), via a car cigarette lighter. Its detachable USB 2.0 adapter also means it can sync and charge an iPod at home or in the office. The charger also has a pass-through dock connector, which allows you to use iPod accessories, like an FM transmitter, at the same time as the device is being charged. You can also charge USB powered devices in your car with the addition of a USB device-specific cable (not included).

It retails at £29.99 and should be available in the coming weeks.

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Griffin's iPod Disko - turn your iPod into a bad wedding mobile disco

Who needs Dazzling Darren's Discotheque? You can have your very own cheesy mobile disco at home, thanks to Griffin's latest iPod add-on - the iPod Disko.

Yes, stick on your Bermuda shirt and medallion and you too can spin some 70s and 80s grooves just like the bloke down the local fun pub. The Disko's main purpose is a case to protect your player whilst offering access to all ports. But there's more - there's some LED lights on the front in three colours and with 5 lighting sequences, all movement controlled. Give it a shake and it's party time.

Now just plug in your iKaraoke and pour yourself a pint with Carlsberg's Draughtmaster and you need never walk into a Flares Bar again. It retails for around $30 online.

Griffin website

Via Gadgetell

Creative claim Xmod Xtreme Fidelity device improves MP3s beyond CD quality

I've heard some grand technology claims but the latest offering from Creative has me wondering just how their new audio-enhancement system is possible. They claim that their latest Xmod device, based on their X-Fi Xtreme Fidelity audio platform, can improve the quality of MP3 and other compressed audio files to beyond the original CD audio quality.

The size of a candy bar, the Creative Xmod plugs between headphones or speakers and the PC/Mac and then acts as an audio enhancer, improving dynamics, and giving cleaner, richer sound that they claim surpasses the original CD. It does this by utilising two audio functions: X-Fi Crystalizer and X-Fi CMSS-3D. The first analyses and identifies which parts of an audio file have been truncated or damaged during compression, and then intelligently and selectively restores the highs and lows missing from instruments such as snare drums, basses, cymbal crashes, guitar plucking, etc. The second technology creates virtual surround sound and uses advanced techniques to place audio elements.

Of course, this all comes from Creative. I've used software audio enhancers that, on the surface, do similar things, but they've never claimed to reach CD quality sound or beyond. After all, the whole point of MP3 and other compressed formats is that they are lossy - data is permanently lost and can't simply be recreated as per the original. This will at best be a very good audio guesser, and it probably works better on minimally compressed MP3 tracks.

It can be used direct from a PC. If used with a portable music player it requires an additional power pack, so it's not much good for on-the-road music.

If you want to try out its claims for yourself, it'll be available later this month for £59.99.

Creative

JBL's alien-shaped Encounter II speaker system

Looking not unlike a spaceship and a pair of aliens is this Encounter II speaker system from JBL. But it's not all about novelty, it should also be quite useful on the sound front for your MP3 player or computer.

The Encounter II speaker system features 2 powerful 13 watt satellite speakers backed up by a 34 watt subwoofer - which should mean a clear sound that can thump out the bass when necessary. There's also a soft touch volume control system, with the system remembering the volume when the system was last shut down, along with bass and treble settings.

It's available from MP3 Additions, a new iPod accessories website with a difference - it offers daily deals and lunchtime deals across its range. The JBL Encounter II system retails for around £100 - but you never know, it might be cheaper sometime in the future.

Product page

Ministry of Sound launch new DRM-free music download site

The Ministry of Sound has partnered with DJ Download and tomorrow will launch a DRM-free dance-focused digital music download service. It will feature 60,000 tracks from over 2000 record labels, all of which are playable on any MP3-capable computer or music player.

MD of MoS Lohan Presencer said "We're insisting on making all the music we sell DRM-free because we want to make it easy for consumers to access, store and play it."

The site does much the same as other download services, but with a dance music flavour of course. Tracks and albums can be purchased via credit/debit card or with PayPal, and the service will recommend new music for you based on your previous purchases.

I couldn't find a list of prices for downloaded music, but it appears to be on a per-track basis rather than subscription. More information on this as I find it.

This looks to be a great move, and whilst it's more of a niche market (though quite a large one) it does provide another source of unprotected music, and another way for MoS to plug their MP3 players.

Ministry of Sound download service

Sony to launch 4GB NW-S706 Walkman

  Sony looks set to extend the capacity of its Walkman range, introducing the NW-S706, with 4GB of storage - heady heights for a Walkman.

Details are scarce (because they've not officially been announced), but courtesy of Play.com, which has the device listed for pre-order, we know it features the 4GB storage, an FM tuner, line-in recording, 3-line colour display, a quick charge function, up to 50 hours battery life and noise cancelling technology (ideal for that daily commute).

Available in three colours (purple, black and pink), it's retailing at Play for £179.99. No date for shipping, but according to Engadget, it's due to hit stores from 9th October.

Sony website

Via Engadget

CyrusLink LinkDock compact iPod dock

Here we go again with another iPod dock. This compact curved CyrusLink LinkDock boasts 4 speaker units, touch sensitive volume keys, remote control of volume, treble and bass, iPod adapter, and line in and out. It features advanced Neodymium and alloy speaker technology as well as a built in amplifier.

It measures 11 x 21 x 10cm so is small enough to fit into luggage, and weighs just over half a kilogram. It does everything else a dock should do, charging and syncing your iPod.

It's actually been out for a little while, and received some decent reviews including a 5-star at What Hi-fi, who said "Quality, value and convenience - the CyrusLink iPod dock has them all. Plug in your player, and you’re off."

It's priced £70

Cyrus Audio

iBag Turntable - iPod goes retro

  Admittedly, it's got a cool, simplisitc design, but with so many of them around, the iPod is no longer the eye-catcher it once was. If you want yours to stand out from the crowd, you need an iBag Turntable - which also offers you some enhanced functionality on the move.

It's design harks back to the 1960s portable record player - and indeed it does play music, courtesy of some amplified stereo speakers on the outside. It also holds your iPod in a securely in place, courtesy of a small pouch, has an FM radio and also volume controls for when your bag is getting a little too much attentio. Of course, it's also a bag, so you can fit all your other daytime essentials in there too.

Powered by 4x AA batteries, you can pick it up for around $60.

Product page

Via Retro To Go

Apple get heavy on use of podcast 'trademark'

I'm an Apple fan through and through (I'd probably buy iBread and iMilk if Apple made them) but even I am getting tired of Apple making themselves look stupid.

I've already written about their objection to other people using the term 'pod' in their products - now they've gone further and set their lawyers on services using the term 'podcast' - which unfortunately is quite a lot of people.

Tom Raftery is just one observer who has seen Apple going after 'Podcast Ready' and their 'myPodder' product, amongst others.

I decided to take a look at Wikipedia (which we all know is 100% reliable, right? :) ) to see what the origins of the term 'podcast' were. It currently states:

The term gained wide popularity as a portmanteau of iPod and broadcasting, but was seen before that as an acronym for "portable on demand".

Whether that acronym or timing is correct, I don't know, but it sounds plausible, in which case it's a happy, probably intentional, acronym that also makes reference to the world's leading portable music player.

If I were running Apple I'd find it quite flattering. Why can't they let it alone to remain in the psyche of bloggers and web-savvy public, many of whom will make that association with the iPod?

I could understand more if the term was 'iPodcast' but it isn't. Sure, Apple have a claim to the product name 'iPod' just as Microsoft have a claim to 'Zune', but they don't have a claim to something that was never their property in the first place. To attempt to retrospectively claim a trademark for something that doesn't relate to a service they offer is crazy.

They could legitimately pursue people using the word 'iTunes' in their own product names, because they created that service. They DID NOT create podcasting, so they should have no right to it.

It's really starting to get on my nerves. Apple are increasingly looking like 'just another corporate' rather than applying their own 'Think Different' motto.

Tuesday Top Ten: Reasons to hate Microsoft's Zune

It was the consumer technology industry's worst kept secret for months. It was supposedly Microsoft's iPod-killer. And now Zune has been unveiled, the reaction has been... decidedly mixed. Which appears to make it the marmite of the personal media player world. And while there are plenty of bloggers and IT hacks out there who are always happy to  be rude about Microsoft, it does seem there are some legitimate criticisms of the new device.

With that in mind, here's Tech Digest's 10 Reasons To Hate Zune. Don't worry, we'll have 10 Reasons To Love Zune on Thursday. Stick the boot in, then cuddle up. It's called tough love. Anyway, on with the kicking.

1. Only 30GB of storage space. With Apple having just released an 80GB iPod, Microsoft comes across as a little bit stingy. How are we going to fit our 50GB of illegally downloaded Hollywood blockbusters onto it?

2. Name ambiguity. Do I pronounce it Zyoon or Zoon? Until someone gives me a definitive answer, I'm sure as hell not walking into Currys to be patronised by some twerp who can't wait to correct me.

3. Who wants Wi-Fi sharing anyway? Especially when it's 30-second song samples, and only of stuff you've bought from the official Zune store. I don't want to spend every bus journey fending off requests from kids who want to send me their latest Lady Sovereign mash-up. EDIT: See comments for correction to this point.

4. The brown Zune. I mean, brown. Jesus.

5. Another closed ecoysystem. So let me get this straight, will the songs I buy from the Zune store work if I buy another MP3 player in the future? Or will I have to buy them for the third time, having already repurchased all the ones I already got on iTunes?

6. Wot no games? I thought this was supposed to be Xbox in the palm of your hand. Swizz! Yes, I know this may be the rumourmongers' fault rather than Microsoft's. But still.

7. It's not that stylish. And if this is supposed to be an iPod-slayer, isn't it duty-bound to look nice? I'm not saying it's ugly, but [insert yo' momma joke here]...

8. It won't work on Macs. Hello Microsoft, us Mac-owners aren't all lap dogs of the Jobs Empire, y'know. Some of us might've quite fancied buying a Zune, but apparently it won't support Macs at launch, and the Zune Marketplace will be Windows-only too. Cheers for that.

9. It won't work with Napster. Or, indeed, any digital music store that uses Microsoft's own Plays For Sure DRM platform. D'oh!

10. They're being a bit shifty about Zune's battery life. This could mean it runs out of juice in 10 minutes unless used with the screen off and at 10% volume. Or it could mean it ships with futuristic fuel-cell batteries powered by rechargeable goblins, I suppose.

MP3 Hit Recorder 2 - download tracks from internet radio to your PC

In what seems like the modern day equivalent of hovering near the record button to tape your favourite song off the radio, X-oom has launched MP3 Hit Recorder 2 - which does much the same thing, but automated and from internet radio.

MP3 Hit Recorder 2 allows you to access 8000 internet radio stations, record up to 20 radio streams and download up to 90 minutes of music at a time from a predetermined list of artists or genres. And according to the company, it's all legal (but don't take my word on that). After that, you can transfer it all to your portable player of choice. New features include a ‘Pre-save’ recording function, so you can record a whole song if you happen to have started the recording mid-way through a favourite track, there's a choice of saved formats (MP3, WMA, WAV or Ogg-Vorbis) and a podcast management function to manage and subscribe to podcasts as well as copy them to their mobile device.

It's available now for around £14.99.

X-oom website

Stormblue A9+ 4GB media player with Bluetooth

The Stormblue A9+ might have struggled for recognition in the crowded media player market, but it's managed to get some attention with one particular feature - Bluetooth - which means it can interact with your mobile.

The player features a 2-inch, 220x x 176, 262,144-colour display and plays back MP3, Ogg, WMA and WMA DRM music files. Microsoft DRM is version 9, but version 10 is coming soon with a firmware upgrade, it would seem. As a video player, the A9+ works with MPEG 4, but bundles software to convert WMV, AVI, ASF and other formats over. The rechargeable battery offers 11 hours playback for video files or 39 hours for music. There's also an FM radio and the Bluetooth. Pair that with some Bluetooth headphones and say goodbye to wires. And if you have a Bluetooth-equipped mobile, you can link that to the headphones too.

Available with either 2GB or 4GB sizes (with an SD slot to boost storage), you can pick up the A9+ now, priced at £109 and £149 respectively.

Find out more

Via The Register

XtremeMac MicroPack portable multimedia dock and battery - extend your playback

Another add-on to boost the power of your iPod, this time it's the XtremeMac MicroPack - an iPod dock with added power to keep you listening and viewing for longer.

The Micropack offers up to 80 hours of audio playback or 8 hours of video. You can use the dock to power, recharge and sync your iPod, as well as use the dock as a stand for watching video. It's also got two independent headphone jacks, each with its own volume control - so you can share your sounds if you're feeling particularly charitable on a train.

It's good for all iPods (except the shuffle), including new iPod video and nano models and is available now for £54.99.

Find out more

Freitag's Fi-Pod - the iPod case made from recycled tarpaulin

Completely unintentionally, I seem to be having something of an environmental day. First up was the Indigo wind-up lamp, now there's the Fi-Pod from Freitag - a protective case for your iPod made from recycled truck tarpaulin.

Having an iPod case from something recycled has got to be a good thing - whether an old tarpaulin is the style statement you're after is something for you to decide. For me, the Fi-Pod (or F23 as it's more formally known) isn't a bad looker. Available for all sizes of iPod and the nano, it doesn't have button access, but the ultra-tough material should keep your player both scratch-free and dry. Colours apparently vary, dependent on the tarpaulin they happen to have at their disposal!

They're available online and priced at 32 Euros.

Find out more

iKey Plus - portable USB recorder for your iPod

File this one under useful. The iKey Plus is a portable USB recorder for your iPod, particularly of use for live audio recording.

Designed to work with the iPod or any external USB storage device, the iKey Plus can record live audio to MP3 or WAV format directly to a USB compatible storage device in real time. In real terms, that means you can record your vinyl to MP3 or WAV, record a live DJ set or record interviews or speeches. And you can record a live gig (if you've got permission).

The updated iKey now features an LCD display, Mic Input, Phono Pre-Amp, VU Meter Display, and Headphone Output, which all should help you get your recordings just right. Available now, you can pick one up for around £179.

Find out more

No Zune Mac compatibility - oh boo-hoo!

No surprise really: a Microsoft product won't be immediately compatible with the Mac. Well, there's a surprise. The ongoing love-hate (mainly hate) relationship between Apple and Microsoft continued with the news that Macs aren't really a priority for the Redmond giant.

No player compatibility and no 'Marketplace' software. Then again, MS are supposedly aiming their player at MP3-less people, and there's a perception that most Mac owners who want an MP3 player will go for the iPod.

So, Macheads, are we bovvered?

Sonnet Volta - boost the playing time of the new iPod video

  It's all very well cramming all those videos onto your iPod video, but what if you haven't got the power to play them back? Solution - something to boost the battery, like Sonnet's Volta, which more than doubles the life of your player between charges.

Apple's latest iPod offers a battery life of 20 hours for music and around 6.5 hours for video. Attaching the Volta boosts total video playtime up to 16 hours or up to 80 hours for music. It does it via a rechargeable Lithium-polymer battery, which Sonnet claims is good for hundred of uses. And it doesn't look like an unsightly growth on your player either - it's got a similar black finish to an iPod and clips neatly on the back. There's also an LED indicator to show how much power is left, with charging possible via USB, mains or car charger.

Available now, priced at $69.95 (approximately £37).

Product page

Kensington FX 300 Speaker to Go

Alongside the SX 3000R iPod speaker system with FM radio, Kensington has this week also launched the portable FX 300, or as it's also known, the Speaker to Go.

The FX 300 is a protective case with an NXT SurfaceSound loudspeaker built directly into it, turning it into a lightweight speaker system with padding to support your choice of MP3 player inside, along with controls on the exterior for volume and power. There's also room inside for earphones, keys, cash and credit cards, with the whole thing powered by 2x AAA batteries, which should give you up to ten hours of playback time.

Available in the coming weeks - we've no UK price as yet, but the US price is $29.99.

Kensington website

ElekTex and Belkin develop wireless armband iPod controller

We've covered Elekson in the past, primarily for their ElekTex smart fabric touchpads, which were used most recently in Bagir's iPod suit. The company's latest venture is with Belkin, for its new SportCommand for iPod products.

The Belkin SportCommand for iPod lets you wirelessly control your music while your iPod stays protected. With its incorporated smart-fabric remote in the armband, the SportCommand is very much aimed at those who go for outdoor activities such as snowboarding and mountain biking.

More details of this and the rest of the range are to follow soon. We've no details of a price or release date of the wearable controller as yet.

Belkin website

XtremeMac MicroMemo iPod voice recorder

Yet another gadget to add a bit of versatility to your iPod. If turning it into a karaoke machine isn't your thing, how about a voice recorder, with the XtremeMac MicroMemo?

It might look like an old-style fruit machine, but that arm is actually a removeable microphone. The MicroMemo plugs right into your dock connector to capture memos, meetings, lectures, or any audio content directly to your iPod. And you can play your recording instantly through the built-in speaker or your earphones. There's full ipod integration, with an on-screen display, one-touch recording in stereo or mono and power from the iPod (no external source needed).

It's available now for £31.99.

Find out more at iWorld

Kensington's SX 3000R iPod speaker system with FM radio

Kensington has upgraded its SX 2000 iPod speaker system, replacing it with the SX 3000R with FM radio.

One noticeable difference is the colour change fro, white to black, ideal for your black iPod and for fitting in with any decor, according to Kensington (personally I'd have thought that was more the case with white). The big selling point, as previously, is the NXT SurfaceSound flat panel loudspeaker, which promises a powerful bass and a room-filling sound from the slimline unit. The Universal Dock connects any iPod with a dock connector to the speaker and a built-in charger recharges the iPod while it's docked. There is also a 3.5mm audio input jack to connect other digital music players.

The SX 3000R also includes FM radio and a wireless remote to control power, volume and playback. It should hit the shops in the coming weeks. No UK price as yet, but in the US, it should retail for $169.99

Kensington website

Review: Samsung K5 MP3 player

The Propaganda

If you haven't already heard enough about the Samsung K5 today, you will have in about 3 minutes time. As we've said, it's available in the UK now, and was the shining star at the Samsung stand this month at IFA.

The MP3 player features an FM radio, touch sensitive buttons and most importantly, a slide out speaker. It's available as a 1GB,  2GB or 4GB model.

The Good

Samsung are selling the K5 based on the strength of the design, as well as the fact that it's got integrated speakers. And I'll admit, people do like the design - the touch sensitive keypad is lit with blue buttons (very Samsung), which is echoed on the screen with blue and green graphics, very much like the skins on Windows Media Player.

The speaker is hid underneath the screen, and flicks out with a satisfying clunk. Once it's displayed the player automatically switches to playing through the speakers. It also switches the display to horizontal so that you can lean it on a desk or where ever you happen to be.

Because of the speaker, you can set the player to act as an alarm, allowing you to either wake to one of several preset tunes, or to a song selected from your library. Like many mobile phone alarms, you can set it to come on on specific day. But, because of the lack of keypads, you're offered a  selection from Mon-Fri, Mon-Sat or Sat-Sun. Poor you if you need to choose the last option. You also can't wake to the FM radio, since the headphones act as a antenna.

The Bad

When I first whipped this out in front of someone, the first question they asked was 'why the speakers'. To which I answered, without really thinking, that it was so you could listen without headphones. And then they asked again - why? And they're right. The speakers are tinny, and although go quite loud, tend to be full of distortion at it's highest volume point.  There are actually no circumstances where you'd choose the speaker over headphones, as far as I can see.  They also double the width of the player, which seems to go against what every other manufacturer is striving for at the moment. And it's not that I begrudge not following the pack. It's just that if you do, I think you have to prove that you did it well.

The keypad is touch sensitive, which makes for a lovely design. Unfortunately, I suffer from lazy fingers, which means although I mean to hit only one button, I often stray over and pause the tracks accidentally. For a while, this lead me to conclude that it had an awful interface, until I realised it was the fault of my lazy fingers. Damn them. And of course with a touch sensitive keypad comes grubby finger marks. No matter how clean you think you are, this player wants to prove otherwise.

I've never come across Samsung earplugs like these before, and they're really difficult to describe, hence the picture to the left.  The bulk of them sit outside the ear, and it is a bulk, making them feel like they're going to drop out at any moment. There's probably some designer whose ears they fit perfectly, sitting somewhere at Samsung's head office, but it's not mine.  However, having said that, the sound through the headphones is very good.

Compatible formats for the K5 are MP3, WMA and Jpegs. However, with a screen size of 1.7" you won't be able to see a whole lot of your pictures, and some of the detail is inevitably lost.

Geek sheet

Plays MP3, WMA

Available in 2GB or 4GB, flash storage

FM Tuner

Playback 30hours, 6 hours with speaker

Built-in Li-Poly rechargeable battery

In our opinion

There's no getting around it - you're paying a premium for the speaker in the K5. A 1GB model costs £120 whilst you'll pay up to £180 for the 4GB version. That's £50 more than the recently released iPod Nano, which, lets face it, is likely to be the leader in this market of attractive medium sized memory MP3 players.  I just don't think I'd be happy to pay the extra for speakers I don't think I'd use, at the cost of not just a serious chunk of cash, but also the line of my jeans when I stick it in my pocket.

European portable music player market continues strong growth

A recent report confirms the continued growth of the MP3 player in Western Europe, which is apparently the world's largest market.

Ready for some statistics?

In 2005 sales of MP3 players witnessed massive growth of 241%, with 32m units sold, and will stay ahead of the rest of the world until at least 2010. MP3 players and Sony's PMP were the hottest selling personal electronic devices in 2005, representing 61% and 20% respectively of a market worth €4.7Bn in Western Europe alone.

Flash-based players are particularly popular now that they compete favourably in price with hard disc based players above 4GB. They are expected to rise in capacity to 30GB by the year 2010, though hard drive players will reach over 200Gb, and so will be most popular for players that show video.

Mobile phones sporting music playback are predicted to take market share from entry-level MP3 players. It'll be interesting to see how an iPhone will fare.

So there you go - we all like portable music players, and not just the iPod.

SanDisk to launch Sansa Rhapsody co-branded music player

There are reports of a co-branded Sansa e200 music player coming from SanDisk that ties into the Rhapsody online music service. It also suggests that the player will come bundled with hundreds of songs from the library (whether they're good ones or not remains to be seen)

Sonos have already done a deal with RealNetworks, whereby Sonos' software has been updated to incorporate the DRM found in Rhapsody. SlimDevices added support for Rhapsody earlier in the year.

Reports suggest that the deal should be advantageous to both sides. SanDisk gets to partner with a music service that rivals both iTunes and the forthcoming offering from Microsoft - seen as important because both SanDisk and Microsoft rely on Windows Media format.

On the other hand, RealNetworks gets a degree of tie-in on another platform and potentially strengthens its position in the ever more crowded online music download service.

What do you think about these co-branded links between music players and music services? Apple and iTunes started it, Microsoft will do it with Zune, and there are plenty of others that have done it or are considering it. Some reports suggest that the 'average consumer' (whoever that is) doesn't care about tie-ins so long as they get the music they want on their player of choice, but there are plenty of voices that hate tie-ins. Your thoughts?

(Via Reg Hardware)

Rhapsody / SanDisk

Will Microsoft's Zune support music subscription services?

If you're a happy user of Napster 2.0, Rhapsody or various other music subscription services, you might be licking your lips at the prospect of upgrading to Microsoft's Zune player, which was announced last week. But woah there. It seems Zune might not actually play protected WMA or WMV files rented from these services.

Blogger Derek Slater suggests it might be because these files wouldn't support Zune's music-sharing feature. Is this a big deal? Not if you're not a subscriber to one of those services, obviously, although predictably you won't be able to play any tunes downloaded from Apple's iTunes store on the Zune either.

But it's yet more proof that the digital music industry is still getting to grips with the idea of being able to buy or rent music from wherever you want, and play it on whatever device you want. Tsk.

[via A Copyfighter's Musings]

iPod users buy little from the iTunes Store

Recent research suggests that iPod owners buy very little from the iTunes Store, an activity that Apple must place heavy reliance on to increase revenue.

Jupiter Research found that owners buy an average of 20 tracks from iTunes, about 5% of their music collection. Most comes from ripped CDs and music downloads from other sites. 83% of iPod owners don't buy music online on a regular basis.

Some of this is not surprising - after all most people have extensive CD collections that they want to rip to their PC and then iPod. There's also something about browsing around a record store that most people enjoy, and there's still a wider variety of music for those whose tastes don't match the iTunes catalogue.

iTunes is quite cool for downloading single tracks from albums that aren't usually available as albums, but downloading complete albums is barely cheaper on iTunes than buying the CD, which you can usually still rip to your iPod and have something tangible to hold.

Whether iTunes will suffer as a result of other services, including free ad-supported networks like Spiral Frog, or become more popular as movie downloads are added to the mix, remains to be seen.

Do you buy music from iTunes or do you prefer CDs or other online sources (ask no questions) for getting tracks onto your iPod?

Review: Parrot Wireless Speakers

According to Parrot, Bluetooth is the future. In fact, they're so confident in this that they deal exclusively in Bluetooth enabled devices - everything from picture frames to speakers.

Their wireless speakers, or SOUND SPEAKERS as they've rather shoutily dubbed them, incorporate two 60W speakers with integrated amplifier, which use Bluetooth to stream music from your mobile phone, MP3 player or computer, as long as they support the A2DP Bluetooth profile.

The Good

Setting up the speakers is simply a case of taking them out of the box, connecting each to a mains supply (it obviously comes with two leads for this purpose) and turning them on so that they're 'discoverable' by Bluetooth devices. There's an LED light on the front of each speaker which indicates it's status, depending on the red/blue combination.

The speakers support Bluetooth devices which have the A2DP profile, as well as those which you can adapt for that purpose. For instance, I used the Bluetooth dongle from the Plantronics Bluetooth headphones to connect my iPod, which worked perfectly.  And because life hasn't quite caught up with Parrot yet, they've supplied a line in connection and lead, so that non-Bluetooth players can be used with the speakers.

The speakers have a synch button on the front of each, as well as volume controls. However, you can control the volume from the player you're using. I've found many other speaker systems don't let you do this.

In terms of the sound you get from these speakers, 60W delivers you a decent amount of volume for a living room, and the bass is relatively clear. It won't compare to the quality you'd get from a speaker manufacturer, but that's not really the technology you're buying here.

The Bad

The speakers are wireless in as much as you don't have to have them connected to an audio source, but there is still the power to consider. Each speaker needs to be close enough to a power source for the lead, and the two supplied are about 3 metres each. This isn't something that any other manufacturer can remedy without a massive battery pack, but does need to be taken into consideration when you think "fantastic, completely wireless speakers" - it won't be easy to lug it into the garden without an extension lead.

The controls on the speakers are minimal - there's basically just an on switch and a volume control. Parrot obviously believe you're going to use the controls on your player or phone to control the volume, since there's no remote provided. This is fine, but in my case, since I use an iPod with a Bluetooth adaptor, means extra handling and grubbiness on the casing. The volume control is also slow to register - it's a case of trial and error in trying to get a decent volume level since it doesn't seem to adjust at the same speed you change it. This is similar when you're changing tracks. There's a definite lag.

The speakers support Advanced Audio Distribution Profile (A2DP), a 2 channel stereo audio stream. Gradually, phone manufacturers in particular are ensuring their phones support this (LG and Motorola can both generally be relied upon). However, I use a Nokia N72, and the N Series isn't compatible so I couldn't stream music from my phone. I also had problems streaming from my computer. Despite installing the driver supplied on a CD from Parrot, and despite my computer recognising and connecting with the speakers, I couldn't get it to play music through them.

The speakers only come in a lacquered white casing, although you have the option of keeping the black covers over the speakers themselves, or taking them off and displaying them. They snap back over the top using magnets, so it's no fuss either way. However, the white finish might not fit in all living rooms, cover or no cover.

Geek Sheet

- Digital two-channel Class-D amplifier
- 60 W RMS power output per speaker
- 7band digital graphic equaliser
- Frequency range: 50 Hz - 20 kHz
- MP3*, MP3* decoder: 192, 160, 128, 112 Kbps
- SBC decoder: 320, 275, 250 and 150 Kbps
- RCA line-in input for all audio sources
- Power supply: 100 V - 240 V, 50 Hz and 60 Hz

In Our Opinion

I love the idea of wireless speakers - the reason I don't have an overly complicated home stereo set up is because I'm fed up with the rats nest of wires I always seem to acquire every time I move house. The only detraction from these in the number of devices that actually work with these speakers. However, this is changing constantly as more and more manufacturers recognise the benefit, so buying these now will probably see them growing in use over the next year or so.  They should be in shops now, although I've had difficulty finding them online. When they are in stick, they'll retail for about £245.

PDT launches Eye-Theatre - the head-mounted multimedia viewer

Staring at a small portable screen can put something of a strain on your eyes. If you want something bigger, especially on the move, it might be worth checking out PDT's Eye-Theatre - a head-mounted multimedia viewer that promises an "immersive audiovisual environment" wherever you are.

Admittedly, you'll look slightly ridiculous. But if you can get past that (or actually like the idea of looking like a Star Trek extra), you can watch movies wherever you are in any format (NTSC/PAL/SECAM). The Eye-Theatre uses twin TFT LCD screens to display iPod video resolution (320 x 240) video. Also incorporated into the unit are high-quality stereo earphones and a choice of nose-pieces, so the unit will fit every face from children to adults. The display offers a similar effect of watching a 50" screen viewed at 2.5m. Because of the dual screen, your eyes focus at 2.5m, so there's no straining of the eyes.

There's enough power for eight hours of viewing, with charging via USB. You can pre-order now, with a price of £149.99 and a shipping date of mid-October.

Eye-Theatre website

Samsung's K5 music player with slide-out speaker now shipping

One of the stars of the recent IFA in Berlin was undoubtedly Samsung's K5 music player, with its sleek looks and slide-out speaker. Well, just days after the unveiling, some models of the K5 have already hit the shops.

You can see our preview of the K5 here, but to sum up, it's an MP3 player with slide-out stereo speakers, OLED touchscreen functionality (which can be viewed both vertically and horizontally), with playback of all the expected audio formats, along with DRM and an FM radio. You can also upload photos to view as a slideshow with your tunes of choice. If you want to see the player in action, check out our video review.

The K5 is available in 1GB, 2GB and 4GB sizes. Advanced MP3 Players is now shipping the 1GB and 2GB models, with prices of £119.99 and £139.99 respectively. The 4GB model is down to ship at the end of the month for £179.99.

Find out more from Advanced MP3 Players

Miglia introduce Diva 2.1 teeny computer speakers

Miglia have launched their Diva 2.1 speakers designed specially for PCs and portable music players. They feature an aluminium subwoofer tube which can be installed at the back of your computer, and then two regular speaker units which can be placed for stereo. It comes with a power supply to drive it.

Speakers are 3W per channel plus the 6W subwoofer, and comes with a 3.5mm mini jack for connecting to the computer or music player.

It comes in brushed aluminium and the satellite speakers look pretty good. It'll sit at the base of your monitor quite happily. Presumably the subwoofer takes more power than could be driven from a USB port, so it will tie up another power outlet, but it's worth it for the improved sound quality.

It's available now for £69.

Miglia web site

Creative Travelsound iPod speakers

I guess if you don't have a hope of taking massive market share from the iPod with your own players, you might as well put your audio knowledge to making speakers for them. At least that's what Creative have done with their Travelsound 250 and 400 iPod speaker systems.

The Travelsound 400 speakers are portable, 180-degree swivelable speakers, letting you adjust the sound for those times when you keep moving from one side of the room to the other.

They feature high quality NeoTitanium micro drivers, up to 35 hours play off 4 triple-A batteries, wide stereo effect, DC jack, 2W per channel output, and weighing 273g without batteries. That swivel speaker system also acts as a cover when not in use. They cost £38.99

The Travelsound 250 iPod Speakers deliver 1.5W per channel, and run from 3 triple-A batteries. It features a dual-angle swivel enclosure for adjusting the direction of the sound. It'll work with any iPod or other player via 3.5mm audio jack. It'll play for up to 25 hours on its batteries. It weighs 248g without batteries. Cost £28.99

Both are available now.

Creative web site

Gear 4's StreetParty sound system for next generation iPods

These iPod add-on people don't mess around. Just as Steve Jobs was leaving the podium at this week's Apple press conference, Gear 4 were readying a new sound system for the second generation nano - the StreetParty.

The StreetParty portable speaker system features two 3w 2.1 stereo speakers with covered grills. It's small enough to carry round and powered by 4x AA batteries (which are included). According to managing director Tom Dudderidge: "We designed the StreetParty to be easily and quickly adapted for any new generation iPod, we’ll be ready to ship in double quick time. The StreetParty is one of our key new products and are we pleased to be able to provide it for our customers and their new iPods so quickly."

No official price as yet, but if you contact Gear 4, they are taking pre-orders.

Gear 4 website

Microsoft finally unveils its Zune digital music player

After the endless speculation comes the facts - Microsoft's Zune digital music player has been unveiled, along with details of its specification and the accompanying music service.

The Zune player comes in one size - 30GB - but in a choice of colours. Those being black, white and brown. It's got a 3-inch screen, built-in FM tuner and will be launched alongside Zune Marketplace, Microsoft's equivalent of iTunes. The Zune Marketplace will support both the pay-per-download or monthly subscriptions.

Zune does have one thing the iPod hasn't got - 802.11b/g Wi-Fi on board. Zune users will be able to user their Wi-Fi connection to transfer full-length song samples, which can be listened for a limited time before becoming unplayable. I'll believe that bit of functionality when I see it. It will also ship with pre-loaded video and music content andf there will also be  car, home and travel accessory packs for Zune at launch - many by third parties who have signed up to provide "made for Zune" add-ons.

The price is still not clear - or indeed a UK release date. But I'm guessing we'll be hearing more on the Zune on an almost weekly basis until it finally does launch.

Microsoft website

Creative's Travelsound portable speaker range

Creative has two new portable speaker units on the market - the Creative Travel Sound 400 and the Creative Travel Sound 250 - both with 180 degree swivel design so you can aim your music anywhere in the room.

The Travelsound 400 promises a powerful sound courtesy of its integrated twin NeoTitanium drivers. And you can add  bit of expanse to that by switching on the ‘Wide Stereo Effect'. There's a long battery life (35 hours on 4 x AAA batteries) or mains power. It fits all iPods and MP3 players, has a free travel pouch and retails for £38.99.

The slightly cheaper Travelsound 250 features two 33mm NeoTitanium micro drivers rated at 1.5W per channel, with the same 'Wide Stereo Effect feature' feature as the 400. Battery life is 25 hours from 3 x AAA batteries or you can use mains power. Again it comes with a travel pouch and retails at £28.99.

Find out more from the iWorld website

Griffin launches new iPod add-ons - iTalk Pro, iKaraoke and TuneCenter

Griffin, creators of all things iPod, has unveiled three new devices for the portable player - the iTalk Pro recording studio, iKaraoke and the TuneCenter media centre.

The iTalk Pro plugs into your iPod's dock connector to become a portable mobile recording studio. It features two built-in microphones to record in stereo at 44.1 kHz. And if you want to spread out for greater stereo separation, you can with a stereo 1/8-inch (3.5mm) input jack for your external mic. You can record in either 16-bit stereo or 8-bit mono and there's one-touch recording makes operation. Recording a bedroom demo suddenly seems very easy.

iKaraoke means just that - karoaoke from your iPod. A high-quality compact microphone plugs into your iPod and at the flick of a switch, existing vocals fade into the background, leaving instruments and backing vocals intact. iKaraoke also sends the music - along with your performance - to your stereo system wirelessly or by cable for the world to hear. And it also features three levels of reverb to blend vocals and accompaniment (and to smooth out your rough edges).

The TuneCenter is a media centre for your iPod, allowing you to watch videos, listen to your music library or browse photos via your TV screen and speakers - all controllable by a remote. This mini-dock also provides access to a number of internet radio stations which can be heard through your connected TV with minimal configuration.

All of these add-ons were unveiled this week at the Apple Expo in Paris and should be available to buy in the coming weeks. However, as yet, prices and availability are not yet confirmed.

Find out more

Can the iPod ever be a great gaming device?

It's perhaps no surprise that Steve Jobs announced iTunes beefed-up gaming capabilities right at the start of yesterday's Showtime event. After all, being able to play Tetris and Pac-Man on your iPod is cool, but it won't cause as much of a stir as downloading movies. And in today's press coverage of the launch, the gaming angle is a footnote at best, and justifiably so.

Yet if you own an iPod – a recent fifth-generation one, anyway – and are into games, it's a pretty significant development. There are nine games available initially on the iTunes Store: Tetris, Pac-Man, Zuma, Bejeweled, Cubis 2, Vortex, Texas Hold'em, MahJong and Mini Golf. Each game costs £3.99 to buy, and once downloaded you transfer them to your iPod just as you would for music.

It's a brave new world for iPod gaming, and a huge evolution on the basic games that were previously preloaded in Apple's devices. As you'll guess from the launch titles, the iPod clearly isn't taking on PSP and DS as a fully-fledged gaming device. Yet can it even compete with mobile phones for the fingers of casual gamers?

At first impressions, Apple has certainly been doing its research. The £3.99 price point ($4.99 in the US) compares well to mobile phone games, which most of the iPod titles appear to be based on, albeit with improved graphics. Companies like EA Mobile, Namco and PopCap Games are involved, and there's an option to buy all nine games for £35.91.

Nosing around the iPod Games section on iTunes, the next thing that struck me was the size of the games. Texas Hold'em is 47.5MB in size, Mini Golf is 37.2MB, and even Tetris is 14.4MB. The version on my Nokia N70 phone is 70KB!

This could mean one of two things: either the games are bloatware, or Apple has ensured developers don't just port across basic-looking mobile games. The screenshot of Texas Hold'em (right) indicates that the latter is the case.

The iPod games section on the iTunes Store seems pretty good too. Each game has its own page, with notes on the game and any exclusive features for the iPod version. There's also a Preview button to see a rolling video of the game in action – which is more than the vast majority of mobile operators offer on their portals. So far, so good.

But. And yes, there's a but. There has to be a doubt over how well suited an iPod is to playing games, particularly with its scroll-wheel. IGN Wireless's news story on the announcement picks up on the fact that user reviews on the iTunes Store are already mentioning control issues, quoting them saying Tetris is "weird" while Pac-Man is "difficult to control".

In fairness, I can't find any comparable reviews on the UK iTunes Store, and several people mention that the controls are great. The scroll-wheel could be a hidden advantage for iPod if developers create games that play to its rotating strengths. And no, that doesn't mean endless Shot Putting sims. Apple will hopefully be nudging developers to take a leaf out of DS's book, to create games that make use of a new (for gaming) control mechanism.

As a keen mobile gamer and the owner of a battered second-generation iPod, I'm excited about Apple's new devices. Not just for the games – the battery life, brighter screens and movie downloads (when they eventually make it to the UK store) are big pulls too. I still think I'd rather play Tetris on my phone, mind, but if Apple can bring a steady flow of cool iPod games - including some original titles – that might change my mind.

Football Manager 2007, please. With my tunes playing in the background of matches. That would be marvellous. In the meantime, those of us who, ahem, have just placed an order for a brand new iPod will have to wait and see if the launch titles herald a bright new future for iPod gaming, or a short-lived novelty.

Bagir and ElekTex introduce the iPod suit

Just when I think the short-lived craze for iPod clothing has come to an end, news comes in of a joint venture between men's tailoring company Bagir and ElekTex, maker of touch-sensitive smart fabrics, the result of which is the iPod suit fo