News
Mac: Audiobook Studio 3.0 Released
- November 4, 2003
- Mac Software
Audiobook Studio can create dynamic digital “audiobook” audio files using text files and your Mac’s built-in text-to-speech. Then drag and drop them into iTunes, distribute them on the internet, or put them on your iPod. New in this version: more dynamic controls over text-reading (including pause insertion, emphasize/de-emphasize specific words, and speed up/down), more flexible preview, and keyboard shortcuts.
Mac: Raw 1.0 Released
- November 4, 2003
- Mac Software
RAW enables you to surf and record Net audio to MP4-AAC. You can record multiple BBC radio streams, Hollywood movie trailer soundtracks and news webcasts at the same time! Recorded files are iPod compatible. RAW offers AppleScript support for third party developers.
USATODAY: MTV eyes music download service by early 2004
- November 4, 2003
- Digital Media
“MTV Networks is preparing to launch a music download service with plans to go up against Apple’s iTunes and other competitors, said MTV chief Tom Freston Monday.
Freston, who addressed investors at the Harris Nesbitt Gerard Playtime conference, said the as-yet-unnamed service would debut within the first half of next year, but gave few details.”
Lajo Releases New Xskn Case
- November 3, 2003
- iPod Accessories
Musicmatch warns iPod users of iTunes conflict
- November 3, 2003
- iTunes
Several readers note that Musicmatch has sent an email regarding a serious software conflict with iTunes for Windows.
“As a valued Musicmatch customer and iPod user, we want to alert you to a serious software conflict caused by iTunes for Windows.
Apple iTunes for Windows prevents Musicmatch® Jukebox from working with the iPod by deleting critical files used by Musicmatch. If you install iTunes, you will not be given a choice between Musicmatch Jukebox and iTunes - Apple makes this choice for you.
To avoid any problems and to get the best possible experience when managing your MP3 collection and transferring music to your iPod, here is what we recommend:”
Billboard: iTunes faces hurdles in Europe
- November 3, 2003
- iTunes
Burton Announces Amp Pack and New Jackets
- November 3, 2003
- iPod Accessories
Burton has released the rumored Amp Pack backpack and three new jackets for use with iPod. The Amp Pack, Ronin and Shield men’s jackets, and the Radar 2 women’s jacket all use “SOFTswitch technology, which allows the iPod to be controlled through a soft, flexible control pad” (located on the shoulder strap on Amp Pack and on the sleeve for jackets). The new iPod line of Burton products are available in very limited quantities in November 2003 at Burton’s new online store, Apple Store online, and authorized dealers in North America, Europe and Japan. No pricing information has yet been announced. The Burton and Apple websites have not yet been updated with the new Burton products.
Macworld UK: ‘Bundle iTunes’, Apple exec urges PC makers
- November 3, 2003
- iTunes
“Speaking on the Inside Digital Media show, Lowe said: “We suggest that manufacturers on any platform looking for a jukebox to carry with their products should take a look at us. iTunes is the best jukebox and the best music store as well.”
Lowe, director of marketing for application services, went on to repeat Apple’s claim that one million Windows users downloaded iTunes software within three-and-a-half days of its release, and that a million song sales also took place.”
PodShop Announces Fall Sale, Updated Website
- November 3, 2003
- iPod Accessories
Today, PodShop announces its Fall Sale, with PodHolder - the company’s popular and attractive iPod stand/display - now available at an incredibly low price of $9.95 US. The PodShop website has also undergone a major upgrade, featuring the addition of many new areas, including customer comments, reviews, and frequently asked questions sections.
40 GB iPod for Barter with Woman?
- November 2, 2003
- Humor
An anonymous person has posted a classified ad on Craigslist Boston website offering up a brand new ‘40GB iPod for barter with woman.’ We’re not sure what to think of it, but have emailed the person to explain their intentions with the barter. If we get a reply, we’ll be sure to post it here.
New Lajo Xskn Case Preview & Giveaway
- November 2, 2003
- iPod Accessories
TheiStore.com has an exclusive advanced preview of ####’s new highly anticipated iPod case the ####. To celebrate the launch of ####, we are giving away ten #### for 2nd gen iPods for FREE. See site for rules and details.
New Sports Backpack for Portable Audio Devices
- November 1, 2003
- iPod Accessories
Athletic iPod users might be interested in pak-man - a new lightweight backpack for use while you’re on the move. Frees up hands and is better than belts and buckles (very last millenium). It looks great with casual and sports clothes, has an ergonomic design and reflective labelling. It’s stretchy fabric moves comfortably with the body. Great sound therapy. It’s an all-new Australian invention, probably inspired by kangaroos. An Internet special is available offering a $34.99 2 for 1 deal.
E-Commerce News: The Real Cost of Online Music
- November 1, 2003
- Digital Media
“Now that Apple’s iTunes Music Store (iTMS) does Windows and Napster has bee rehabilitated, more people are starting to change their music-buying focus moving from old-school CDs to new-generation digital formats like AAC (Advance Audio Coding) and WMA (Windows Media Audio)
However, the onset of legal music download services has brought a new issue front and center: sound quality. The bit rate of an iTMS AAC file is 128 kilobits per second (kbps)—just a fraction of the 1,411 kbps “uncompressed” standard used for CD, WAV and AIFF files.”
Guardian Unlimited: The iPod Wars
- November 1, 2003
- iPod
“How can rival MP3 jukebox manufacturers end music fans’ love affair with Apple’s iPod?
Taking on the Apple iPod is a brave move. The iPod has claimed the moniker of the Walkman of the 21st century for its superb design, compact size, usability and, unusually for Apple, competitive price. Several manufacturers have tried but so far none have succeeded in loosening the all-conquering Apple product’s vice-like grip on the MP3 jukebox market.
However what was once a niche product area is now moving towards the mainstream. Sony is predicting a huge growth in network audio (any personal audio device that plays MP3 files including CD and MiniDisc) in the coming year and several other makers have big plans for product launches in the area.”
Innovacases Europe Sells Vaja Cases
- October 31, 2003
- iPod Accessories
Innovacases.com has announced their website launch as the official reseller of Vaja cases in Europe.
iPod Halloween Costume
- October 31, 2003
- Humor
Well, we were wondering if someone was going to do this… and they did. A reader has submitted photos of his iPod Halloween costume. “I decided to go to the office Halloween party as something more Apple-like. And it won first prize!” It even has a built-in drink holder.
Amazon: 20GB iPod for $375 and 10GB for $284 with free shipping
- October 31, 2003
- Deals
Amazon is offering the new 20GB iPod for $375.24 and the new 10GB iPod for $284.04. Both qualify for free ground shipping.
iSKin eXo 2 for 1 extended until November 3
- October 30, 2003
- iPod Accessories
The eXo 2 for 1 has been extended until Monday, November 3rd to give a chance to those that are not sure if they want an eXo or ####. Details of the new #### case will be released this weekend. How to hold your eXo 2 for 1 order for 15days: submit an unpaid order on the www.####.biz site and it will be held in a database for 15 days before it is deleted. If you decide that you want to complete your order just follow the instructions on the auto email that will be sent to you.
Custom iPod engraving for free at Apple
- October 30, 2003
- Deals
Dealmac: Apple offers free custom engraving, a $20 value, on all new iPods purchased at The Apple Store. Offer ends November 5, 2003.
NY Times: iTunes is best vs. the rest
- October 30, 2003
- iTunes