MP3 players

I’m currently working on a project where kids take part in an online survey. One of the questions asked is what they most want for Christmas. iPods are understandably high up on the list - and in fact, no other MP3 Players are listed there. iPod has become synonymous with MP3 Player here in New Zealand, and most probably overseas. In fact, I was shocked when there was a clip on TV last week talking about some “new” MP3 Players which are being released which may challenge the humble iPod.

Yawn, like how long have these MP3 players been on the market for?

How much would you pay per month for a music subscription service? According to recent research, 40%-60% of people aren’t willing to pay more than $10 a month, depending on which country you survey. On avergae, a third of MP3 player owners want music services just for free.

Currently, services like Napster or Rhapsody are costing about $15 a month.

More details on the research is found here.

Griffin today announces the TuneBox speaker system and charger dock for Apple iPod shuffle. Plug the shuffle into the docking connector between TuneBox’s twin speakers for instant gratification. TuneBox charges the shuffle’s battery while it’s playing. TuneBox’s micro drivers and efficient amplified speakers generate a powerful, dynamic sound, with unexpected clarity and great highs and lows.

TuneBox keeps the shuffle’s clickwheel controls up front within easy reach. Though it’s designed to visually complement the iPod shuffle, TuneBox delivers great sound from any Mp3 player or other audio device that uses the standard 3.5mm stereo jack.

With a space investment of less than 4 square inches, TuneBox delivers impressive sound and functionality.

Features:
• Total power output of 2+2 Watts for amazing sound
• 3.5mm jack input (compatible with other MP3 players and devices)
• Stylish design that complements Apple’s award-winning industrial design
• Functional design keeps shuffle controls handy
• Dimensions: 4.32 inches x 2.44 inches x 4.4 inches
• DC power cable for use in office or home
• Slim design AC adapter fits easily on crowded power strips or wall outlets
• Input: 100-240 VAC 50-60 Hz 0.5A
• Output: 12VDC 1.0A 12.0W

The Griffin TuneBox is now available for $39.99 USD from many iPod dealers, or order direct from Griffin’s website: www.griffintechnology.com.

PodSpider is a new program (Windows users only currently) which provides intuitive access to the world’s largest directory of US and international podcasts. The software is available via free download here.

PodSpider provides access to over 13,000 podcasts in various languages, organized into 25 subjects and more than 300 categories. Subjects like Sports, encompassing baseball and basketball broadcasts for example, are fully represented in addition to subjects like News and Comedy. The PodSpider Directory is so diversely populated that broadcasts on science or God can also be found. New podcasts from all over the world are added daily and reviewed by PodSpider to ensure full playability.

KEXP 90.3/91.7FM and KEXP.ORG, Seattle’s eclectic non-commercial music station, announces the launch of a live stream to mobile phones and handheld devices. This new service complements KEXP’s groundbreaking first-ever pre-produced music podcast featuring full-length songs from albums and is another result of KEXP’s technology partnership with the University of Washington.

KEXP offers a 32-kilobit MP3 or WindowsMedia stream optimized for cell phones and handheld devices using Palm and Windows CE operating systems.

Listeners with web-enabled phones can point to kexp.org and automatically view a new mobile version of the Webby award-winning KEXP website. To receive streaming audio, listeners must use a web-enabled phone or mobile device equipped with a media player and subscribe to a wireless carrier’s data service. Some of the newer generation’s car stereos will allow listeners to plug in their cell phones or handheld devices.