iPod Accessories - News Roundup 5/22
Elgato releases software update for Turbo.264
Elgato Systems has released Turbo.264 version 1.3, a free update to its USB video encoder hardware. The Elgato Turbo.264 is a Mac-only H.264 video encoder that accelerates video exports to iPod, iPhone, and Apple TV formats. New in version 1.3 is support for DVD chapter markers, which are merged into chapter markers readable by video-enabled iPods, the iPhone, and the Apple TV, and support for Dolby Digital pass through on Apple TV video exports. In addition, the software update offers numerous improvements and bug fixes. Turbo.264 version 1.3 is available now as a free download from Elgato’s website. For more information on the Turbo.264 hardware, read our full review.
Myvu ships Crystal, Shades video eyewear
Myvu Corporation has announced that it is now shipping its new Myvu Crystal and Myvu Shades video eyewear. Both new viewers feature Kopin’s CyberDisplay technology, offering the highest pixel density and the sharpest resolution for its size, a rechargeable battery with up to 10 hours of viewing time for Shades and up to four hours of viewing time for Crystal, and earbuds from Ultimate Ears. Myvu Crystal also offers VGA quality resolution and a 35% increase in the field of view over previous Myvu models, and sells for $300.
In a partnership with INNO Design, renowned designer Young Kim worked on the Myvu Shades, giving them a unique glance-down sunglass-inspired design that allows viewers to keep aware of their surroundings. Shades also offers 320×240 resolution, and sells for $200. “The market for mobile content is exploding, yet the small screen dilemma remains,” said Kip Kokinakis, president and CEO of Myvu Corporation. “Myvu Crystal and Shades solve this problem by offering a lightweight portable media viewer that lets consumers watch their favorite videos anywhere on Myvu’s vivid virtual and full-sized screen.” For more information on the eyewear, read our review of the Myvu Crystal and Myvu Shades.
Pre-orders for iStik for iPod nano 3G now open
iStik, Inc. has announced that it is now accepting pre-orders for its iStik case for the iPod nano (with video). Designed as an alternative to athletic armbands, the iStik is a hard clear case that utilizes magnets to secure its back to an included separate panel, allowing the user to stick the nano directly onto his/her clothing or bag. The company claims the magnets are safe for use with the nano, but cautions against use with a pacemaker or placement near a traditional hard drive. The iStik case for iPod nano (with video) is scheduled for release on June 1 and sells for $25.
V-moda now offering Vibe earphones in pink
V-moda has begun offering its Vibe in-ear earphones in “blush,” a new metallic pink color with silver accents. Like other Vibe headphones, the blush model features a metal housing, a v-masque dynamic driver, and an iPhone-compatible, gold-plated 3.5mm headphone plug. Three different sizes of silicone ear fittings are included in both clear and black, along with a leather carrying pouch and a modawrap cable manager. The V-moda Vibe blush earphones are available now and sell for $101.
ezGear rolls out Video Cable for new iPods
ezGear has introduced its new Video Cable for new iPods, featuring compatibility with the iPod touch, iPod classic, iPod nano (video), and iPhone. The Video Cable for new iPods contains an Apple Authentication chip, which is required to activate the video-out feature on late 2007 model iPods and iPhone. The cable itself features a Dock Connector on one end, and standard RCA composite video and audio plugs at the other. In addition, the RCA end of the cable also offers a female USB plug for charging the iPod while the Video Cable is connected. The ezGear Video Cable for new iPods is available now and sells for $40.
Best Buy offers Lucky-branded iPod speakers
Best Buy is currently selling the Lucky Brand speaker system for iPods, a special edition of Sonic Impact’s iP22 Portable Speakers. The Lucky Brand system offers a built-in iPod Dock, and an integrated carrying case with a zippered closure and a unique Asian-influenced design inspired by Lucky’s men’s and women’s clothing on the fabric outer shell. Other features include a strap for portability, 24-hour battery life and an included power adapter for charging, and an integrated amplifier. The Sonic Impact Lucky Brand iP22 Portable Speakers for iPod are available from Best Buy and sell for $100.
Mophie ships Radura case for iPod touch, classic, nano, iPhone
Mophie has announced the availability of its Radura case for iPod classic, iPod nano (with video), iPod touch, and iPhone. The Radura is a clear polycarbonate case that offers open access to all ports and controls, as well as compatibility with the mophie Ratchet swiveling belt clip and the Run armband. The Radura for iPod classic and iPod nano also includes three silicone inserts (in black, pink, and green) which are placed at the rear of the case and offer added shock absorption. “With Radura, we’ve achieved a really great balance of, simple, clear design and strong protection” says Ross Howe, Sales and Product Development Director for mStation/mophie. “Now, owners of all types of iPods and iPhones have a strong, sensible case that offers maximum protection, without sacrificing the unique aesthetics of Apple’s products.” The mophie Radura case for iPod classic, iPod nano (with video), iPod touch, and iPhone is available now and sells for $20. [via Techimoto]
Tags: ipod cases, ipod chargers, ipod docking stations, ipod headphones, ipod skins, ipod speakers