iLounge

Vaja has released the new iVod mini for the iPod mini. The mini case features padded, genuine Argentine leather, screen protector and access to the ‘HOLD’ switch, headphone/remote port, dock connector and click wheel. The standard iVod mini ($49.99) comes in black and will be available soon. The customized iVod starts at $69.90 and is available now for ordering. Custom iVod mini cases come in twenty-six colors, with or without belt clip, and can be personalized with your name or company logo. 

OtterBox, makers of waterproof cases for PDAs has announced the oPod for 3rd generation iPods. The oPod case features an “interactive water resistant membrane,” access to the headphone port, buttons and touch wheel. There is no access to the “Hold” switch. We questioned OtterBox what could be accessed, and they replied with the following. “The case has full functionality to the keys [buttons and touch wheel] and the headphones can come out of the top of the case.  However, but as far as docking or access to the ‘HOLD’ switch, this case doesn’t have access to that through the case.  We do allow for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd Generation [iPods] usage via different headphone inserts (and also the ability to use the remote) and foam spacers that accommodate the different iPod thicknesses.” OtterBox also noted that the case is “waterproof from the standpoint of rain, shower, etc, but we don’t recommend swimming or diving with it.” The oPod costs $49.95, comes in five colors, and pre-orders are now being accepted for an estimated ship date of June 15th. All pre-orders will be entered into a $20 iTunes Gift Certificate giveaway. OtterBox also plans on releasing an oPod for 1st and 2nd generation iPods.

MacSkinz has released iPodSkinz, a hard plastic faceplate for all iPods and coming soon to the iPod mini. iPodSkinz feature access holes for scroll/touch wheels, and come in twenty-one printed designs - ranging from faux fur, alien heads to camouflage. MacSkinz also plans on releasing backplates in matching designs. iPodSkinz cost $20 and are available now for shipping.

Editor’s note: MacSkinz has increased the price from $12.50 to $20 and have removed the $25 minimum order requirement.

Rhino Skin, makers of PDA hardcases, has released a new aluminum hardcase for the iPod mini. The anodized aluminum hardcase features cushioned neoprene interior, access to all function buttons, Rhinoclip removable post and belt clip system, and a Stuffbak Loss Protection Service label. The new case costs $34.95 and Rhino Skin is now accepting pre-orders for June delivery. 

Battery Technology, Inc. has announced the release of The iPod Battery. “The iPod Battery comes with interchangeable cradles for the 3rd generation iPod and iPod Mini and will provide up to 40 hours of music play-time or download time, regardles of the age or status of the original (internal) battery. The battery does NOT charge the internal iPod™ battery. The power will by-pass the internal battery and goes straight to the unit.” The iPod Battery is $99.95 including free shipping in US and Canada. 

#### has released the xrap, an ultra clear TPU iPodmini body wrap that will not only protect the body but also the screen and click wheel. Xrap sells for $6.50 plus $5 shipping to anywhere in the world.

JAVOedge has announced the JAVOScreen screen protector for the iPod Mini. JavoScreen is made of non-reflective material that is same as your original non-reflective LCD display. It does not create glare after applying. The JAVOScreen for mini costs $5.95 (or 3 for $15.17, save 15%), and includes a free Cleaning Cloth and Installation Card.

New online retail store iPodX has announced its official launch into the world of iPod accessories. To celebrate their opening, iPodX has lowered the price on several items; iSkin eVo for £19.99, Ten Technologies naviPod for £38 and #### eXo3 for £7.99. They are also the sole European distributor for TrendyGeek’s PodShield, an almost completely invisible covering for iPod that offers scratch protection. iPodX is giving away free UK delivery on all orders over £20.

Skin EFX has released a load of new stickers to ‘skin’ your iPod with colors and/or patterns. The stickers are pre-cut forms to place on the front of the iPod, can only be applied once, have a four year outdoor durability, and cost $4.95 for a set of two. 

Contour Design has announced seven new colors for its Showcase iPod case in addition to white, including yellow, red, pink, black, blue, light blue and green. The Showcase features a shock-absorbing rubber with hard plastic, a clear plastic front with access to all iPod functions, a double-hinged latch and a removable belt clip for horizontal or vertical mounting. The case fits 3G iPods only and costs $39.95 for one or a 3-pack for $79.90. Contour is also offering a special promotion; buy two, get one free. Available starting May 15.

SmarterCase, makers of PDA cases has released a new iPod specific case called the SmarterPouch. “The SmarterPouch is a brilliant melding of soft case and hard case providing iPod users the best of both worlds. The good looks cushioning and versatility of the soft case backed up by a steel backbone similar to hard cases make a superior and useful case.” The SmarterPouch is available in leather or fabric prints for $19.99 including an Ultra Clip belt clip. 

Diver Entertainment Systems, makers of the H₂O Audio – underwater MP3 audio systems is requesting iLounge readers take the survey for the possibility of developing a system for the iPod. Current products include systems for the iRiver series of MP3 players which include specialized headphones, and are rated for a depth of 200 feet. All paticipants in the survey are entered for a chance to win an iPod mini. Prices for the current line of products range from $300 to $600.

####’s exomini-fb the last of the series of 7 exomini cases has just been released in time for ####’s Mom’s Week 50% Off Special which will start on Monday. This is the fourth flat back case #### has released for the iPod mini and it can be converted to belt use with ####’s new TwistClip which rotates to 7 positions. It will be available mid May. Exomini-fb sells for $15 plus $5 shipping to anywhere in the world and for a limited time next week you will be able to buy it for $7.50. 

Altec Lansing has released the inMotion Adapter for iPod mini for inMotion speakers. “Allows the iPod mini to securely dock in the inMotion™ portable speaker system.” The adapter is free, but shipping and handling is $3. Limit of 5 per customer. Shipping available to US and Canadian residents only.