Nvidia to supply chip in the new iPod video

Nvidia has beat Broadcom to the contract to supply multimedia chips for the next iPod video which is expected next year. “Based on our analysis, we believe Nvidia is designed into the next-generation vPod socket at the expense of Broadcom,” said American Technology Research analyst Satya Chillara. “We believe the Nvidia chip adds 3D graphics functionality in addition to all of the existing features (such as H.264) that Broadcom supported with the existing vPod.” Apple’s current fifth-generation (video) iPod uses an audio chip from PortalPlayer and a multimedia chip from Broadcom. Apple’s “true” video iPod is rumored to be delayed until the first half of 2007.

Pacific Rim release black Cube Travel Speakers

Pacific Rim Technologies has today announced a new version of its Cube Travel Speakers. The new portable speakers now come in black and not just white, they have independent volume control, and ship with with an iPod nano docking adapter. The Cube Travel Speakers are regularly priced at £25, but will be on sale for £20 until August 1st, 2006.

keep iPod accessories safe with the iSnug

While cases and clips for iPod s may be a dime a dozen, bags designed to hold the plethora of accessories that many carry with their iPod s have been a bit thin on the ground – not so, any longer.

The iSnug accessory case is a small, convenient and cushioned bag made by Handstands to keep cables, the iPod power brick and any of the host of other accessories that iPod users tend to lug around.

Padded with EVA foam and featuring pockets and holders that will fit most accessories, the iSnug will appeal to many travelling iPod cognoscenti.

Jade Hansen, Handstands iPod product manager said: “The best part of the iSnug Accessory Case is the simplicity and durability.

“iPod users will also like the fact that they can store their ipod accessories separately, and only take them when they need them…This [iSnug Accessory Case] is perfect for just tossing into a suitcase or back pack, and allows users to not be concerned with damaging their iPod accessories.”

Retailing at about £16, the iSnug is available online.

Founded in 1983, as one of the first companies to manufacture and sell mouse pads, Handstands has now developed into a company makes and sells a range of products, from computer accessories to sporting and automotive accessories.

Music Phones go head to head with the iPod

Business week is reporting that some users are starting to leave their iPods at home in favour of their MP3 phone. It comments that with the rise in storage on phones that people are choosing to leave the iPod at home and take their phone. I feel this could be a small threat to Apple’s iPod but not for a while as the storage on phones is around 100 songs at the moment. Coupled with fact that users upgrade their phone every year they do not do this with their iPod.

Alien Ant farm to perform at Apple store in US

Apple have decided that following the success of live music in its UK stores they would follow up in the US with a similar idea. Alien Ant Farm will be performing at the Apple retail store in Santa Monica on July 20th. Also Indie band The 88 will be live at Apples Grove store in LA on july 21st. There is a chance that this will be available to download to iPod via itunes.

Is this the new iPod killer?

www.blog.easyipod.co.uk has details on what could be the new MP3 player expected from Microsoft to rival the Apple iPod. With a very similar design to the iPod it has a similar wheel. The main thing Microsoft would need to get right is the way the software and the device work together.

Next iPod nano to sport aluminum enclosure

Apple plans to use an iPod mini-like aluminum casing on the next generation iPod nano, according a report by AppleInsider. In an effort to cut down on scratching, Apple has been “experimenting with aluminum anodized enclosures similar to those used in the company’s iPod mini,” the site claims. Apple has reportedly “committed to the transition away from the nano’s polycarbonate-coated shell and towards aluminum enclosures.” AppleInsider says the new casing is expected to debut in “color variations similar to those used with the iPod mini.”

Man arrested for child porn on iPod

A Texas man who admitted to storing illegal images and videos of children on his iPod has been sentenced to 40 years in prison. The state’s Attorney General office said this was the first case it investigated in which an iPod was used to store child pornography.

Timbuk2’s laptop cases

Timbuk2 has released a new range of laptop cases aimed at stylish users who want to stand out.

Known for its messenger bags, the manufacturer’s laptop cases come in a range of designs, designed to practical and yet sophisticated.

The quilted laptop sleeve features 360-degree padding, with a corduroy lining and a Velcro closure to keep contents secure.

Meanwhile, the Marina Computer Handbag is out with new colours especially for the spring.

These include peacock blue, slate blue, coral, silver and red, all featuring a main compartment that can hold a 15-inch Apple Powerbook or a standard-sized PC laptop.

The manufacturer states: “With ample room for files, cords and additional essentials, the interior features a fun, floral design and a zippered pocket with a key tether.

“An easy-access exterior zip pocket has a cell phone pocket and pen holders. You might just retire your favourite briefcase for this stylish new handbag.”

Laptop cases are available now from the Timbuk2 website and are priced from around £30 to £50.

Case-Mate launches laptop accessories

Case-Mate has come up with a few new gadgets designed to make life that little bit easier for today’s laptop professionals.

First off there is a laptop sleeve that fits a laptop up to 15.4 inches like a glove. Known as Glovez, it is made of nylon and leather, with double Velcro tabs to make sure the laptop stays put when on the move.

However, the interior lining is made of softer neoprene to stop unwanted scratches from materialising.

Meanwhile Handle-It could prove just as handy as a laptop accessory, a handle that doubles up as a heat sink.

Made of aircraft aluminium with a leather exterior, the handle fits into the holes already in one of Apple’s MacBook Pros or PowerBooks, making for even easier transportation. When it isn’t being used to carry the laptop, it folds underneath to act as a passive heat sink, according to CNET News.

Finally, a transparent stand makes for a more comfortable posture when working on the move. The Silhouette also has the advantage of folding away into a thin box for transportation.