<![CDATA[Gizmodo: ilounge]]> http://tags.gizmodo.com/assets/base/img/thumbs140x140/gizmodo.com.png <![CDATA[Gizmodo: ilounge]]> http://gizmodo.com/tag/ilounge http://gizmodo.com/tag/ilounge <![CDATA[Is CES Still Trying To Seduce Apple?]]> Apple announced this year that they would no longer attend the decade-old Macworld conference, leading some to speculate that the company would shift their focus to CES. Well, the CEA is now shifting their focus to Apple, but why?

The floorplan for CES 2010 sees the iLounge—the section for Mac accessory retailers—expanded to six times its previous size. Why would they do this? Macworld, despite Apple's absence, is still happening, albeit one month later, so it's not like CES is addressing a trade show void. On the surface, it looks like the CEA might actually be trying to seduce Apple into attending their conference.

But just as before, something about such rumors is odd: Apple left Macworld because it didn't need Macworld, so a move to CES, which they need even less, would be hard to understand. A more likely explanation is that CES is just trying to kill what remains of Macworld. There may not be a void in the Apple tradeshow world right now, but that doesn't mean the CEA wouldn't like to create one, which they would gladly fill in 2011. [CNET]

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5265625&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iLounge 3G iPhone Mockups Run Gamut From Marvelous To Meh]]> We already have a pretty good idea of how the iPhone will work, from GPS, to faster network speeds, to how it will help raise you kids (lower prices), but it's always fun to see the crazy ideas people had in their heads for what they thought the new design should be. Wired roped up seven of the best, worst and impractical iPhone designs from iLounge, just in time for Monday's purported launch. Sure, this might be iPhone overload to the nth degree, but I think we can all agree Photochopping is the geek gift that keeps on giving (false hope).

These mock-ups were designed by iLounge readers. iLounge held held a competition to find the best ideas for the new iPhone. Best? Worst? You tell me—there's more at Wired to bash, praise or drool over. [Wired]

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=5014332&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodweek - The Best of iLounge]]> This week at iLounge: Wireless iPod speaker systems are still in their earliest days, and the IntelliTouch EOS Wireless Speaker Core System is an example of why. Uniquely loaded with two sets of speakers — one wired to an iPod dock, one wireless — the only major issues this $300 setup had were so-so sound quality and aesthetics. We also updated our reviews of two Monster Cable accessories: the Monster iSplitter 200 saw an update to make it physically compatible with the iPhone, but it remains a better-than-average headphone splitter. The Monster iCarPlay Cassette Adapter for iPod/iPhone saw a similarly small update.

Most important this week were our hands-on First Looks at over 25 new iPhone accessories, including the Elan Snap-In case for iPhone from Griffin Technology, the Sena Cases Vertical Pouch for Apple iPhone, the ToughSkin for iPhone from Speck Products, BoxWave's Designio Open Screen Leather Sleeve for iPhone, and the ShieldZone Front Shield for Apple iPhone. There were many, many others, and we're adding more to iLounge all the time. Of course, we didn't forget the iPod either, and took our time checking out the Belkin Power Dock AV, the surprisingly interesting display remote EWOO from Zicplay, and a final version of the super car kit from Harman Kardon, Drive + Play 2.

In The News: iTunes news was huge this week. Apple debuted a new iTunes commercial this week starring Sir Paul McCartney, and has been populating the iTunes Store with every reference possible to members of the Beatles save their official albums. iTunes continued its march towards world dominance by supplanting Sony's Mora download service as the go-to music vendor for Yahoo Music Japan, the country's biggest web portal, and planning to offer links to its music through Europe's popular Bebo social networking site. Apple also announced iTunes Festival London as a series of sponsored music events in the U.K. in July, with free tickets given away by Apple, and sessions available through the iTunes Store.

In Apple TV and iPhone News:

There wasn't much to report this week on the Apple TV front, but iPhone details are coming in fast and furious. Even though we're all marking our calendars for June 29, we still have some unanswered questions regarding the iPhone, and we examine the five biggest &#8212; contract pricing, phone service quality, the device's battery, possible first-revision glitches, and the on-screen keyboard &#8212; and answer with our best guesses. To some it was a huge disappointment, and to some it seemed like a sensible compromise, but no matter what your personal view is, the news that third-party iPhone development will be restricted to Web 2.0 apps was certainly the biggest news of the week. In fact, we're already starting to see iPhone Web Apps, two weeks away from launch. AT&T's internal iPhone Sales Training Workbook found its way onto the internet, and revealed small details of the phone, such as the fact that the device will have both speakphone and vibration functionality, but lacks MMS and IM support. The Wall Street Journal's Walt Mossberg was gifted with an early review iPhone by Apple, and managed not to get mugged (yet), but demand for the unreleased device is strong. Apple has sent out some tips to help you get ready, but expect some long lines leading up to the 6:00 p.m. local time launch.

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=269334&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodweek - The Best of iLounge]]> This week at iLounge: We did a little celebrating at iLounge this week, as our release of The Free iPod Book 3.0 led to more than 300,000 downloads of the guide to all things iPod, iTunes and more &#8212; a feat that would be impossible without the wonderful contributions and support of our readers.

All that celebrating didn't keep us from our reviews, as we got to play with the Memorex iTrek Mi3000 Portable Speaker for iPod, and found it to be a solid, well-thought-out product. We also checked out the Mondo Mint Digital Music Station DMS300, which earned our recommendation despite it's overly bassy sound. We found Incipio's IncipioHitch USB Adapter for the 2nd Gen iPod nano to be a decent, reasonably priced accessory that doesn't offer much utility beyond functioning as a replacement for Apple's Dock Connector to USB cable that comes free with every nano. Our Apple TV review also saw an update this week, to reflect the new 160GB model.

We got our mitts on the cleverly named iHome iH20 Hidro-Fi Water-Resistant Shower Speaker System, which hides your iPod inside, away from the water, and SendStation's PocketDock AV All-in-One iPod Video Kit, which offers audio, video, and USB out in a pocket-sized adapter. We got our first looks at a several new cases as well, including the Skymate Designer Series Cases for iPod 5G and nano 2G, the Skymate Classic and Folded Series nano Cases, and the Aquarius iJacket for iPod shuffle 2G.

Backstage, we took a closer look at Apple's latest iPhone commercial, "Watered Down," and found that not only is an old (October 2, 2006) version of NY Times.com displayed on the handset, but the iPhone's build of Safari also seems to properly render the site's flash-based video player.

If you've been thinking about buying "Made for iPhone " accessories before you dutifully line up at your local Apple or AT&T Store on June 29, you might want to wait. We looked at the reality of the current iPhone accessory situation, and recommend you hold off until we all get a better understanding of what accessories will work and which ones need work to play nice with the new handset. And if you're thinking about selling off your current iPod to fund your iPhone purchase, take a look at our latest pricing chart to get an idea of how much your older model should be worth.

In the news: We finally got what we've been waiting for: an iPhone release date. Three new television commercials trumpeted the June 29 launch date, while showing off the long-awaited handset's main features &#8212; and a fourth appeared mid-week to keep the hype machine in high gear. A European CEO claimed that the iPhone needs servers placed "deep into the [operator's] network" in order to work correctly, while rumors continue to swirl about third-party applications for the device. AT&T is reportedly beefing up its EDGE network in anticipation of the iPhone, other reports claim that the device will lack the Disk Mode option its iPod brethren share, and Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster says Apple may sell 45 million of the handsets in 2009.

Apple launched its new "Major in Mac" promotion, offering a free iPod nano to every college student who buys a Mac. Belkin began shipping its iPod power accessories, Incase introduced a couple of new iPod folio cases, and rumors claim that Apple may have to put the rumored flash-based video iPod on hold.

Things were fairly quiet on the Apple TV front this week, although research firm iSuppli did provide a look at the device's component cost, and found that with an optimistic cost of $237, Apple isn't exactly filling its coffers on the back of the set-top box.

Oh, and those commercials that announced the iPhone's release date? Apple mysteriously removed the "Use requires minimum new 2 year activation plan" disclaimer from the ads both on-air and online, adding to the confusion regarding what activation plans will be available for the phone, as well as lending credence to rumors that the handset would be available for use with prepaid service. We'll all know for sure June 29.

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=267294&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodWeek - The Best of iLounge]]> This week at iLounge: We got to play with a few new accessories, like the DLO HomeDock Music Remote. The three-line screen on its remote was useful, but not as useful as it could have been due to limited browsing options. We also checked out Elgato Systems' Turbo.264 Video Encoder Hardware, but deferred on giving it a final rating because of a problem with the USB dongle's software. We found the iHome iH8 Dual Alarm Clock Radio to be pretty much what we expected: a slightly stripped-down version of the iH7 at a lower price. Finally, the Mophie Bevy served its multiple functions, but with limited success.

While the TV series "Lost" just ended its third season, the new game for the iPod that is based on the hit show feels like it got cancelled halfway through. The game also completes the "Lost" iPod/iTunes quinfecta, making it the only franchise on the service with a game, TV show, podcast, audiobook and soundtrack. We also got our first looks at several products this week, including the Mondo Mint Digital Music Station DMS300, a sharp-looking iPod speaker system with wireless capabilities, as well as Memorex's iTrek Portable Speaker for iPod, which is available with or without a carrying case. We got our mitts on the entire iStyles 2007 Sleeve Collection, which offered a variety of fabrics, textures, and colors, and the iStitch Customizable Protective Slip-on Cover for iPod nano, a hand-stitched novelty iPod case.

In the News: iPhone-mania remained strong this week, with AT&T pushing their rebranding of Cingular forward to take advantage of the iPhone launch. Leaked screenshots, supposedly from AT&T's internal system, showed prepaid plans for the iPhone, and a telco analyst claimed the iPhone will be released on June 20. Verizon's COO claimed their answer for the device is coming in late summer. It turned out the iPhone really is patented, and 90 percent of phone owners found the iPhone superior to their own handsets. YouTube videos finally found their way onto Apple TVs, Paul McCartney's back catalog has yet to make it on to iTunes, and an iPod Amnesty Bin was found at Zune HQ.

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=263747&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodWeek - The Best of iLounge]]> This week at iLounge: It was a review-heavy week at iLounge, with nine new ratings handed down. We took a look at several speakers, including the Altec Lansing inMotion iMV712 Portable Audio System, and while the audio was impressive, it's large size and so-so video quality hampered its performance. We also played with the Kensington FX 500 Speaker To Go, a "speaker case" that surpasses the company's FX 300 in functionality, but also in bulk and price. We found the Sharp i-Elegance DK-A1 Music System for iPod to be a well-designed all-in-one speaker, but its sound balance left something to be desired. Finally, Memorex's Mi1111 Home Micro System for iPod packed lots of features, but also packed some bass distortion. We also examined several cases, including Capdase's Belt Leather Case for iPod nano 2nd Generation, and found its quality on par with its low price. The same can be said for the company's Pattern Leather and Bifold Style Classy Leather Cases for second-generation nanos. On the other side of the spectrum, AB Sutton's Video Slip and Video Book for fifth-generation iPods offer precise customization and high build quality, albeit at a premium price.

We got our first looks at the XtremeMac XtremeHD HDMI Switcher, which packs four-port HDMI switching and Apple TV-styled looks, and the Griffin iTrip Pocket for iPod nano, a small, slightly limited version of the earlier iTrip for iPod nano. We also checked out the DLO HomeDock Music Remote, which lets you navigate your iPod from a display on the remote, and the Kensington QuickSeek FM Transmitter for iPod, a combo FM Transmitter and charger that automatically finds the clearest station for your broadcast. We checked out NLU Products' BodyGuardz Scratch Proof Transparent Film for iPod 5G, which claim to combine substantial film protection with clear visual clarity, and the Burberrry-esque Speck TechStyle Classic for iPod.

In the News: The iPhone finally received FCC approval, hurdling one of the last obstacles on the way to release. Nokia's CFO is hoping the device expands the high-end market, TBWA is going to handle the phone's advertising, and ezGear introduced some of the first iPhone cases. Amazon announced its DRM-free iTunes competitor, Coke announced it will give away 2 billion iTunes downloads in Europe, and a study said that iTunes-like video services have no future. Many are wondering whether the new McCartney iTunes exclusive is a precursor to the Beatles' appearance on the store, Apple aired a new iPod+iTunes ad, and and Microsoft announced plans for a Zune plant in China. Finally, don't forget about our iPod Fashion Contest, which ends in three days &#8212; four iPhones are still up for grabs.

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=261729&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodWeek - The Best of iLounge]]> While all was quiet on the review front this week, our First Looks section saw more than enough action to make up for it. We got our first look at the iHome RX Stereo Bluetooth Receiver, TX+RX Stereo Bluetooth Transmitter and Receiver, and F1 Wireless Stereo Bluetooth Earphones. We took a gander at the Memorex Mi1111 Home Micro System for iPod, which packs quite a feature set—CD player, radio, iPod dock and subwoofered speaker set—into an affordable package, and we also checked out the Belkin In-Desk Dock for iPod, which uses a grommet hole to mount your iPod flush with your desk. Not to be forgotten are new cases; we looked at a bevy of iPod nano and iPod shuffle cases from Capdase this week, and got our mitts on the Mophie Bevy Protective Case with Earbud Wrap, Key Chain, and Bottle Opener for the iPod shuffle.

Backstage, we took some time out from our iPod-related duties to check out the Soho from iSkin for MacBook & MacBook Pro, and while it packs good looks and decent protection, it does have its drawbacks—heat retention and port access among them. We also were first to report some new Zune news out of Redmond: Microsoft's trying again, with a bigger-than-nano flash Zune and another hard-disk-based Zune with a bigger screen. Also, as you can see from a couple of the photos above, and our gallery here, competition in our iPod Fashion Contest is heating up, with some great entries vying for four iPhone prizes and iTunes cash.

In the news: New iPhone features were hinted at in an AT&T email to prospective customers, Steve Jobs revealed that Apple is still considering third-party iPhone apps, and Motorola's CEO claimed that the company is "ready" for the iPhone &#8212; frankly, so are we. Also, a study claims that iPods can cause pacemaker malfunctions, EA has plans for four new iPod games, and Belkin released two iPod nano cases that help fund breast cancer research. Finally, an Apple patent showed a new dual-sided, touch surface-on-back handheld device, an analyst claims that labels want digital bundles on the iTunes Store, and Microsoft released an update for Windows Vista to fix iPod

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=259808&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodWeek - The Best of iLounge]]> This week at iLounge: Was this the slowest week for the iPod since 2003? Perhaps. With the entire iPod ecosystem quietly working on accessories for iPhone &#8212; 4 (!) of which we're giving away to lucky readers in our iPod Fashion Contest &#8212; the 100-million-selling iPod has taken a surprising backseat this week.

Thankfully, iLounge hasn't been entirely silent. Our editors' blog Backstage took a behind-the-scenes look at our controversial review of Wingspan Partners' iLoad, a $299 CD ripping device that underperformed even our oldest iTunes-equipped computer. The Backstage article, packed with rare testing videos, demonstrates connectivity issues and a bug that results in crazy long CD ripping times, both denied by the manufacturer. One reader called it the "Best Backstage article yet!" &#8212; see why inside.

We also posted an update for all of our readers who use FM transmitters to listen to iPod music in their cars. In Bad Days Ahead for FM Transmission, we discuss how the FCC is knocking on the doors of transmitter makers, forcing them to cut excess broadcasting power from their recent devices. The consequence: more static and weaker signals from connected iPods. If you're forced to use FM transmission, you might want to find an older option, instead.

Many magazines have Letters to the Editor. We have Ask iLounge, a weekly column where an iLounge editor answers your questions &#8212; iPod, iTunes, iPhone, Apple TV and iLounge. This week's Ask column tackles six recent questions: how to tag content for Apple TV, organizing your Music Videos, dealing with duplicate music files, how the Universal Dock's line-out works, problems restoring iPods, and unlocking the iPod's volume limit. Submit your questions to Ask &#8212; just use the archives (from 2004 to the present) to be sure they haven't already been answered.

We also looked at four new and generally excellent cases for the iPod nano, each completely different from the rest, and drawn from a different part of the world. On the high end, New York-based AB Sutton's Nano Slip is the rare leather case we actually liked, with incredibly elaborate customization &#8212; dual-layer monograms, starburst patterns, and more &#8212; plus a 2-3 week waiting time. More affordable options came from two Asian companies: Hong Kong/San Francisco-based SwitchEasy's $20 hard plastic Capsule delivers great looks and an innovative Click Wheel cover, while Japan/Los Angeles-based Power Support's $30 Illusion Case updates the original silver mirrored design with second-generation nano curves, more protection, and a new gold mirror option. Finally, Nashville, Tennessee's own Griffin Technology is now selling the $25 iVault for the iPod nano, which offers machined and magnetized aluminum protection for first- and second-generation nanos.

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=257829&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodweek - The Best of iLounge]]> This week at iLounge: We take an in-depth look at Apple's latest iPod game iQuiz, finding the movie, music, and TV trivia title expandable via free software, and well worth the minimal $1 price tag, despite small technical problems. The JBL Radial Micro Superior Loudspeaker Dock for iPod also arrived this week, and while it looks like a mini version of the cool Radial, it sounds more akin to JBL's cheaper, older On Stage II. We also reviewed the latest version of HandBrake, which is the simplest end-to-end tool for converting DVDs into Apple TV and iPod-ready files.

We got our first look at two new Griffin speaker systems this week; reviews are being posted today. The Amplifi 2.1 Sound System for iPod sports two 2 3/4" neodymium drivers up front with a down-firing, ported 5" bass driver, all in a sleek little package with a Powermate-esque blue light ring around the volume knob. Journi (formerly known as Voyager) is a portable speaker system for Dock Connecting iPods, and features a "Wrapstand" to protect the iPod during travel, as well as SRS Labs' SRS WOW digital signal processing. We were happy with the improvements in both size and speed found in the Harman Kardon Drive + Play 2 Mobile Media Manager, the successor to the original Drive + Play, and also took a look at ventureDESIGNworks freeHAND, a case-like "a pocket for the back of your hand." Think Power Glove minus the NES.

Backstage this week was all about the impressive new Harman Kardon Guide + Play, a sleek portable GPS device that not only offers an easy to use, Apple-worthy interface, but also plays MPEG-4, WMA10 and WMV9 format videos on its large touchscreen, along with MP3 playback. Although most folks in the target demographic for such a device likely already have a GPS unit and/or and iPod in-car solution, the terrific GPS interface and multimedia capabilities of the machine have us curious all the same.

In The News: This week was almost all about Apple's quarterly results and surprises from the accompanying conference call. Apple shipped 10.5 million iPods in its second fiscal quarter, helping to drive the Mac maker to the most profitable second quarter in its history. Later, during the conference call, Apple CFO Peter Oppenheimer revealed that iPhone and Apple TV will be placed on a subscription accounting model, which allows Apple to add new software features and applications to the products at no charge. Word surfaced that AT&T plans to market the iPhone to business users, despite Microsoft CEO Ballmer's claim that "it doesn't appeal to business customers." Finally, Apple confirmed that films will be heading to the European iTunes Store by the end of the year, which is great news for all those content-deprived European Apple TVs.

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=255986&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodWeek - The Best of iLounge]]> This week at iLounge: Everyone's been talking this week about the Griffin Technology Dock Adapter for iPod shuffle, a way to let the second-generation shuffle play or charge on myriad dock-sporting iPod speaker systems. We've already reviewed it, along with Harman Kardon's EP730 and EP720 High-Fidelity Noise-Isolating Earphones, which turned out to be less impressive than their other Etymotic Research-designed cousins. We also played with the Brookstone SongPlay Music System for iPod, and enjoyed the design of the speakers, including the illumination behind the iPod, as much as we did their sound.

We got our first look at the Griffin Technology AirDock Docking Station with Remote, a stylish docking and charging option for 4G and 5G iPods, minis, and nanos, and also took a look at the Blue Raven Video iPod Battery Replacement Kit, one of the first do-it-yourself battery replacement kits for the fifth-generation iPod. Finally, we got our hands on the Sierra Sound iN Studio 5.0, which combines "studio monitoring quality" speakers with an iPod Universal Dock, and are available in black, white and the unfortunate red we received.

Backstage at iLounge this week contains a doozy: exclusive first details on a breakthrough new earphone design from Ultimate Ears, and discussion of Maroon 5's mysterious album disappearance from the iTunes Store. We also shared a few of our Thoughts on Premium iPod Speakers, pricey new additions to the ever-expanding iPod accessory market. Our thoughts? Buy based on sound, not on price. We also took a deeper look at the Consequences of iPhone's early debut, questioning whether the negative consequences of the device's early introduction outweigh Apple's reasons for the premature unveiling.

In The News: It was hard to escape "iPhone fever" this week, as seemingly everyone had something to say about the not-yet-released device. A Microsoft high-up stated that the iPhone was "not an option" for business users, while a study found that nearly half of everyone surveyed knew about the phone, with 17% saying they planned on picking one up come late June. Both Cisco and Sling were talking, both with Apple and with the press about making the iPhone compatible with Cisco's ubiquitous office telephony systems and about streaming to the device. iPhone cases were spotted both online and at a Hong Kong trade show. Finally, with all this news surrounding iPhone, it's good to hear AT&T reassure the world that the iPhone is on schedule for an end of June release.

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=254103&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodWeek - The Best of iLounge]]> This week at iLounge: We finally got our hands on the Razer Pro|Type Keyboard, but unfortunately the "I have an iPod dock" cachet couldn't overcome the device's overall awkwardness. We also checked out the Logic3 Crystal Armor Case for iPod with video, and found it to be somewhat of an overachiever, offering excellent protection (albeit with less-than-seductive style) and solid value. We updated our review of the XtremeMac Luna Alarm Clock + Room Audio System for iPod to reflect a new product rev that includes improved FM reception and a fix for a possible reversed stereo problem &#8212; unfortunately, there is no way to easily tell one Luna's box from another.

We got our first looks at the Griffin Courier for iPod and the Griffin iVault for nano. While the Courier brought innovation and functionality, it also displayed so-so build quality. The iVault for nano looked like it may be a solid case, with features like magnetic closure and a rubber Dock Connector cover. We also have some good news for our international readers: we added a translation feature that provides Spanish, French, German, Italian, Dutch, Greek, Japanese, Chinese, and Korean translations of most iLounge content.

In the news: With Apple TV fever dying down, the spotlight was back on the iPhone when Apple blamed the upcoming cell for Leopard's delay. Buzz surrounding a possible iTunes subscription service also kicked up this week, with reports stating that not only was Apple already working on one, but that the labels themselves are asking them to offer a subscription-based plan. Add to that a rumor that USI and Foxconn have both been tapped as manufacturing partners on a Wi-Fi iPod, and the Philips/DLO acquisition, and it's been quite a busy week at iLounge.

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=252295&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodWeek - The Best of iLounge]]> This week at iLounge: With the dust just beginning to settle after the release of Apple TV, one thing that's obvious is that no one seems to be fully satisfied with its out-of-the-box functionality. Whether you're struggling to make HDTV-ready, Apple-compliant videos, hoping for a bigger hard drive, or need to add support for more video file formats, our brand new Complete Guide to Apple TV Optimization has the pointers you need. Separately, we also looked at why the device needs full access to the iTunes Store, not just a few scattered "Buy now" buttons, in order to be the real media device of the future.

Sick of all the Apple TV coverage? We hear you. We also played with some new accessories this past week, most notably Altec Lansing's iM600, which is tied in our book for bragging rights to the "best $150-or-less portable iPod speaker system" badge. Packing an FM radio, very good sound, and one of the nicest-looking bodies we've yet seen in an iPod speaker dock, iM600 works with all iPods, and is a big step over the earlier, nano-only iM500 we thought was better on looks than sound.

Traveling with your iPod? We've also done a few reviews of power chargers, including XtremeMac's "charge it everywhere" InCharge Traveler, with airplane, car, and wall chargers, plus two chargers from Griffin: the car and wall PowerDuo travel, and the wall-only PowerBlock travel. All three chargers come with international wall blades so you're ready to top off the iPod's battery overseas.

This week's Backstage entries were also especially notable. We checked out some cool metal MacBook accessories from Japan's Power Support, including a laptop-to-monitor stand and a tilting tray. Controversially, we also entered into the debate over whether a Zune subscription/subsidization program would make sense. Could Apple bury Microsoft by rolling out an iPod financing plan? Add your comments to the discussion thread.

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=250409&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodWeek - The Best of iLounge]]> This time last week, we were busy doing comprehensive tests on that controversial new $299 Apple thing—you know, Apple TV—to see what it was and wasn't capable of doing. The result: our mammoth Apple TV review, which takes you through the unit's video, audio, and photo performance (and problems), including details you haven't seen anywhere else. We've also built an All Things Apple TV resource page full of additional information, links to discussion forums, and accessory details such as reviews of XtremeMac's line of XtremeHD cables for Apple TV. Reasonably priced, well-built HDMI and optical/TOSLINK cables are only two of the company's five nicely designed options.

Also, we've had the chance to play with a whole bunch of legitimately interesting new accessories since our last update. Philips' DCD778 under-cabinet system adds a flip-out 8.5" LCD monitor, DVD player, and iPod dock to your kitchen or bathroom, though (surprise) the price tag may make you look elsewhere. Brookstone's new SongPlay Music System offers a cool almost globe-like speaker system with metal grille and illuminated iPod dock, and Hearing Components' recent Comply NR-10 earphones include new coated, tapered foam earpieces that we think are the comfort- and noise-isolation-providing tips of the future. Also, Alive Style's PopAlive Remote and Dock provides the least expensive color LCD remote control for iPods we've yet seen, and ADS Tech's Instant Video To-Go H.264 accelerator gets reviewed, making iTunes-ready movies faster than ever, but with some odd performance kinks you'll want to read about. Enjoy!

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=248552&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodWeek - The Best of iLounge]]> This week at iLounge: In our push to help people realize just how important good earphones are to their iPod listening experiences, we focused this week on a massive earphones tutorial - the Complete Guide to Earphones. Last week, we started the Guide with photos and descriptions of 11 types of earphones, but this week, we radically expanded it: Part 2 walks you through buying basics, Part 3 focuses on the most critical earphone features and pitfalls, and Part 4 has our editors' top picks at various price levels. If you want the short summary version, cut straight to Part 5, which includes a couple of cheat sheets so you can make a smart decision, faster.

Also: We looked at Griffin Technology's new radio SHARK 2 AM/FM/Internet Radio recorder for PCs and Macs, and were surprised to find that the Mac accessory specialist left many of the best software features for PC users only. Reviews of two new waterproof accessories - Aquapac's 100% Waterproof MP3 Player Case and Fire Fox's canalphone-style Liquid Frequency earphones - also hit the site, along with First Looks at three new Harman Kardon/Etymotic earphones (EP710, EP720, EP730), and much more.

In the News: Forbes' Taesik Yoon says Apple could struggle to sell 10 million iPhones by the end of 2008; UBS analyst Alex Guana believes Apple will move its full-size iPod to NAND flash memory, offering 16GB and 32GB models; The European Union's consumer chief backed off from her views of Apple's closed music system; The Palms Casino Resort has teamed up with Apple to offer exclusive "Live from Las Vegas" performances on the iTunes Store; and Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster says Apple is entering the digital living room market with a 10x lead over the next closet competitor, Microsoft's Media Center, thanks to the large amount of iTunes users.

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=244884&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodWeek - The Best of iLounge]]> This week at iLounge: There's no accessory as important to your portable listening experience as a good pair of earphones. Just like the speakers that sit on your desktop, bookshelf, nightstand or floor, the tiny speakers in earphones can seriously muffle, distort, or otherwise change the way your music sounds. Since Apple's packed-in earbuds aren't exactly stunning, replacing them with upgraded alternatives is the easiest way to transform your iPod from "good" to "amazing" in a matter of minutes. We've posted the first part of our Complete Guide to Earphones to help you sort through all of the options out there — part 2 is coming soon.

Also: Our editors debate just how long Apple can hold off on releasing a dedicated widescreen iPod — you know, the one everyone's been expecting for two years, and still waiting for despite the announcement of the iPhone. Speaking of the iPhone, you can win a 4GB model, Apple TV or iPod nano in our "Wallpaper Yourself an iPhone, Apple TV, or iPods" art contest.

In Reviews and First Looks: As has become increasingly common, speaker and headphone reviews have dominated our attention this past week. We've had hands-on time with Shure's upcoming SE420 premium headphones, and reviewed its lower-end SE210 and SE310s, with surprising results. We also took a First Look at Philips' impressive AJ300D clock radio — a really clean silver iPod speaker system with an attractive $70 price tag and nice digital clock built in. A review of Lenntek's Hookup Lanyard — an affordable Bluetooth kit that lets you interrupt iPod nano music with cell phone calls — is also very much worth checking out.

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=243196&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodWeek - The Best of iLounge]]>
This week at iLounge: We love reader comments. Love them. So this week, we launched a series of three "our opinions, your opinions" pieces where we and you get the opportunity to speak out on recent developments in the iPod, Apple TV, and iPhone spheres. Our favorite piece of the bunch, Will Apple TV Succeed ?, is generating lots of interesting commentary, while our latest edition, Is iPhone Still Exciting?, just launched this morning. We also asked whether iPod Games have succeeded or flopped in a third piece, iPod Games: Boon, Bust, or Test?. Join the discussions and add your views today.

In reviews and First Looks: We've taken the razor to Philips' new $200 DCP850, a 8.5" portable video screen and DVD player with an iPod dock and remote control, comparing it to its three previously released rivals. We also posted First Looks at iLuv's new i182 video recorder for the iPod, capable of one-touch creation of videos, and DLO's second-generation HomeDock Deluxe, an iPod-to-TV dock that lets you browse your music and video collections on any television set. Marware's new Travel Dock for iPod shuffle is one of many new shuffle and nano accessories added to our ever-expanding catalog of iPod add-ons, too.

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=241213&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodWeek - The Best of iLounge]]> This week at iLounge: Win an iPhone... or an Apple TV! Yes, that's right &#8212; we're giving away some crazy prizes in our latest contest. In Wallpaper Yourself an iPhone, Apple TV, or iPods, you have the chance to win one of Apple's latest and greatest consumer electronics products &#8212; or two iPods &#8212; if you submit one of the winning desktop/wallpaper artwork entries to our ever-expanding iPod Wallpaper Art gallery.

In Reviews: We've tested a ton of new products in the past week, including everything from $10 iPod cables to high-end speaker systems. VUUM's $700 vacuum tube-packed VTi-B1 audio system went up against $300 competitors and didn't do so well, while Chestnut Hill Sound's all-in-one, $549 George finally had its first true review and did a bit better. We also looked at and liked Atech Flash's combination USB 2.0 hub and iPod dock iDuo Hub, and shared some interesting new insights into v-moda's Vibe and Bose's TriPort IE In-Ear Headphones.

In Commentary: Our Backstage section looked this week at Apple's brass-balled iPhone name grab from Cisco, and asked why the company didn't try to seize the "iTV" name it announced last September for Apple TV. We also checked out Wal-Mart's most recent iPod and accessory knockoffs, inspiring some interesting reader discussion.

In First Looks: First hands-on details of Harman Kardon's futuristic $350 Go + Play Boombox, plus dreamGear's more affordable alternative, i.Sound Concert to Go. Speck has also unveiled TechStyle Puck, a earphone and iPod case for the second-generation iPod shuffle that might look a bit familiar to fans of Shure earphones. As always, there are lots of other items on iLounge worth seeing in our full First Looks section.

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=239348&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodWeek - The Best of iLounge]]> This week at iLounge: While the iPod caught fire as a digital music player for the masses, its recent popularity as a video player is similarly undeniable. But keeping your video library organized in iTunes is nowhere near as easy as it has been for music. So we've assembled The Complete Guide to iTunes Video Management, a straightforward tutorial on how to import, organize, and enjoy video files with iTunes and the iPod. Expect organization to be a necessary step if you're thinking of buying an Apple TV, or hoping for an iPhone or next-generation video iPod.

In reviews: We've published comparative reviews of two under-$75 iPod alarm clocks - the excellent Timex Ti700 and the less expensive iHome iH4 - plus a full look at Chestnut Hill Sound's George - the $549 iPod speaker system with a clock and wireless display remote control. Our findings may surprise you, but not as much as our look at v-moda's new Vibe earphones. Would you believe that 1 cent worth of silicone rubber can completely change the way that these, and other in-canal earphones sound? The full story there is a must-read. Fans of noise-canceling headphones will also want to check out our look at JBL's new $149 Reference 510 Headphones.

First Looks: This week's highlights included Turkish Kaftan (woven rug) Cases for the iPod from a company called NorthShore International, as well as $35, iPod nano-colored speakers from Logic3 called i-Station Travellers. We also checked out new deluxe 5G iPod crocodile leather cases from Sena, and furry faux animal cases from ifrogz called Exotics.

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=237562&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodWeek - The Best of iLounge]]> This week at iLounge: You may have already heard about Saying iDo, our new feature article on iPod-assisted weddings, but if you haven't seen it, it's worth checking out. Even if you're not as obsessive as some of the ideas might suggest (iLounge's editors would never - yeah, never - bring iPod cakes to our weddings), other parts, like proofing wedding photography on your iPod and downloading planning or actual wedding videos in iPod format, will impress you. Separately, we've looked at one of the best laptop bags we've ever used, BBP Bags' Hamptons model, and discussed some of the likely but surprising ramifications of Apple's recent agreement with the Beatles, and "Thoughts on Music" essay.

In First Looks: We've reached the point where we're no longer surprised by the fact that new iPod speakers are arriving every day or two, but the company names keep changing. After last week's release of the first Timex alarm clock for iPods, this week saw the unexpected debut of Sony's first speaker system - the oddly-named CPF-iP001 Cradle Audio for iPod, a $250 2.1-channel mini system with a large dedicated subwoofer. And Chestnut Hill Sound launched George, which at $549 is the most expensive all-in-one iPod desktop clock radio we've yet seen. What justifies these prices? In Sony's case, the Sony brand name, and in George's, a sophisticated LCD-screened remote control, and substantial user-customizability.

In Reviews: We looked at two under-$10 ways to use the Nike + iPod Sport Kit without more expensive Nike+ sneakers, one from Marware, and one from SwitchEasy, plus a new photo-customizable case from Griffin called iClear Custom, and the black-and-red Special Edition Claro case from iSkin.

In News: Apple CEO Steve Jobs shocked many with a well-written open letter on digital rights management (DRM). Jobs called for the major music labels to drop DRM. Reaction to Jobs' letter was mixed. TicketMaster announced that it will offer pre-orderers of certain iTunes Store album releases priority ordering rights for the artists' live concert tickets. Plus, Prudential Securities research analyst Jesse Tortora believes the next iPod could "include a wider touch-screen, Wi-Fi and GPS."

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=235472&view=rss&microfeed=true
<![CDATA[iPodweek - The Best of iLounge]]> ilounge-feb-1.jpgThis week at iLounge: Thanks to Apple, the week's biggest iPod news was "colored aluminum," as four new iPod shuffle colors - orange, pink, green, and blue - joined the earlier silver 1GB shuffle at $79 price points. For all the details, check out our photo gallery, updated iPod shuffle review, and 5 key facts you want to know.

Stuck with a silver shuffle? Good news: we've reviewed a bunch of different color-shifting options, including a wide variety of cheap snap-on shields from JAVOedge. JAVO's ClearCase lets you orange out your silver shuffle, and its metal Shields offer green, blue, pink and red options - not bad for their very low prices. Taking a different angle, Power Support's highly protective shuffle Silicone Jacket also found its way under the review microscope this week, and was named the best case for the second-generation shuffle.

Also: For those looking to update their earphones, we tested two new $100 options - Sweden's impressive d-JAYS in-canal earphones, and iSkin's stylish new Cerulean X1 earbuds, which are a lot like Sony's well-known MDR-EX70 series in shape. We also reviewed JBL's skinnable, flower-shaped Spyro speaker system for girls, and took First Looks at Vuum Audio's vacuum tube speaker system VTi-B1, Timex's new Ti700 dual alarm clock tower, and much more.

News: In a joint statement, Apple and Cisco said that negotiations over the iPhone trademark had resumed, and that legal proceedings will be delayed until Apple can respond to Cisco's lawsuit. The NFL announced that it will make highlights from this year's Super Bowl available for purchase the following day at the iTunes Store. And according to Luxembourg's economy minister, Apple plans to launch iTunes Store video sales this spring in Europe

]]>
http://gizmodo.com/index.php?op=postcommentfeed&postId=233675&view=rss&microfeed=true