iPod iTunes Zone

iGiki has released its Ultra Games Bundle II for Apple’s iPod touch and iPhone. The compilation for Apple gadgets includes more than 40 games, software to create custom games, and widgets as well as various extras. Users can create custom iPod touch and iPhone games without writing a single line of code, according to iGiki, while widgets offer games like Block and FaceOff modified for use with multi-touch displays. iGiki Games Bundle II is priced at $35.

Included games:

• Aerial Pursuit – Battle a fleet of enemy fighter planes in an all out aerial pursuit. Evade, shoot, complete the mission, prove your valor.
• Arcade – Mix it up with tossing, shooting, jumping, and more. Includes 8 individual games such as Secret Agent: Unleashed, Hole in One, and Galaxy: Full Throttle.
• Black Jack- Choose your wager, deal the cards, count ‘em up, and try to outwit the dealer. It’s 21 or bust!
• Block – Align the cascading blocks. Tap them into place, as you try to completely fill up the board. Rotate them as necessary. If you like Tetris, this is your game.
• Brain – Put on your thinking cap for some thought provoking fun. Includes 6 individual games such as Word Expedition 2100, Nitro Numbers, and River Peril.
• Canyon Crawl – Accept the challenge of keeping the crawler on its path. Dodge obstacles and devour fruit for extra power.
• Chomp Man – Control Chomp Man as he munches pellets. Help steer him towards the energy pellets so that he can have the strength to devour the ghosts.
• FaceOff – Immerse yourself in a sea of joyful smilies while tapping and matching ‘em.
• HangMan – Guess the word or sacrifice the man. Includes tons of words and clues.
• iLudo A.I. & Social – The classic Ludo board game has been adapted and updated. Your opponent is your iPod touch or iPhone. The aim is to be the first to get “home.”
• iPinball – Be a groundbreaker as you tap along playing the first ever Pinball game engineered for the iPod touch and iPhone. With brilliant graphics, realistic ball movement, and easy to use flipper controls, soar into Pinball nirvana.
• iTanks – Command an artillery assault against a well fortified enemy. Shoot the ground out from under the enemy or it’s curtains for you.
• iTrek – Pilot a spaceship across a distant planet. The terrain is perilous and your fuel is limited!
• KissOff – Pucker up for this colorful matching game. Tap on groups of tantalizing lips.
• Magic 8 Ball – Need to make a decision? The mystical Magic 8 Ball is available to help. Pose a question, take note of the response, then choose your course of action.
• Outer Wars – Journey to the next dimension in an out-of-this universe 3D game. Navigate through the canyons of a distant planet.
• Sink or Swim – Save a crew of overboard sailors from the jaws of man-eating sharks.
• Slots – Pull the handle, spin the reels, and hope lady luck is on your side. An authentic replication of a casino experience.
• Solitaire Revolution – Large cards, endless entertainment in this revolutionary take on Solitaire.
• SpinCycle – A dazzling game loaded with flash and movement. Quickly match the numbers before they switch.
• SportsMatch – Tap on groups of similar sports icons and bounce your way to sports heaven.
• Sudoku – This logic-based number placement puzzle is wonderfully challenging.
• SweetMatch – Devour groups of sweets as you try to clear the board. Calorie-free!
• Tetroku – A Falling Block And Sudoku Hybrid – Kick up Sudoku, converge with falling blocks, and thrill to a game of pulse racing strategy. Features online scoring.
• Textalution – Enter the next dimension, where visual, verbal, and digital communications are in sync and style.
• Tic-Tac-Toe – The classic Xs and Os game. Step it up and try to beat your best time
• World HangMan – Travel the world, guessing countries and other geographic landmarks as you play.
  Includes over 40 mobile games, unlimited games that you create, widgets, and extraordinary extras.
• Parental Controls – Although iGiki content is suitable for all age groups and is designed for young children, adults, and anybody in between, you have the ability to block access to any of the games, at your discretion.

source: ipodnn.com

Thousands of consumers hoping to enjoy music, photos, and movies with Apple gadgets they receive this holiday season may need to learn some basic skills before diving right into the devices. Dave Taylor, a SupportSpace Committee member specializing in Mac as well as handheld technologies says the jump is even more difficult for most PC users. “Apple’s iPhone and the latest generation of iPods have delivered enormous power and simplicity to the average consumer, but the technology is still complicated and usability is not 100% intuitive, especially for Windows users,” he said.”The key for holiday shoppers who want to avoid holiday frustration is to gain key bits of knowledge so they can enjoy their fabulous new tech toys.”

SupportSpace CEO Yair Grindlinger says consumers need to quickly get the right answers to their questions, and that speedy aid is especially important during the holiday season when people would rather enjoy the technology than becoming frustrated by it.

The company is offering a list of tips for Windows users hoping to receive an Apple iPhone or iPod to help soften the learning curve, focusing specifically on the unseen obstacles most users will face:

• Audio files are in different formats: Apple iPods prefer MP3 formatted music, but Windows systems default to Windows Media Audio (WMA) format. Windows users who have a library of music will need to convert the files from WMA to MP3.
• Windows Media Player and Apple’s iTunes compete for digital files: Users manage all content through Apple’s Windows software application iTunes. Without it, copying music on to an iPod or iPhone is not possible, and if iTunes and Windows Media player “compete” for the data, users are in for hours of frustration. Once users learn to use iTunes, which they must install on their computer to get the iPod or iPhone to work properly, they can then manage audio and video content on their computer and have it automatically sync with their handheld device.
• Adding movie files is complicated by digital rights management and different formats: The constraining digital rights management policy of iTunes software and different video file formats can be difficult to work around and understand.
• Loading photos is not Plug and Play: For Windows users, managing photos can be difficult because there is no default photo application for Windows that is tightly integrated into iTunes. For Mac OS X users, iPhoto and iMovie functionality is seamlessly integrated into iTunes.

SupportSpace is also offering general tips for iPhone and iPod Windows users:

• Be sure to download the latest iTunes software from Apple: Particularly for Windows Vista users, it is critical to install the latest version of iTunes (Version 7.2 or later).
• Rip audio CDs in the proper format: Use iTunes to burn audio CD’s, or if users want to use Windows Media Player, they must change its settings to create MP3 files, not WMA files.
• Understand issues about copying DVD movies to iPods and iPhones: Going to the iTunes Store to repurchase and download movies already owned on DVD is the legal way of getting the content onto iPods and iPhones. Copying DVD movies onto the iPod or iPhone is not legal, but can be done easily by purchasing third-party software that circumvents DVD encoding systems. Users should understand the associated copyright issues and proceed thoughtfully.
• Carefully manage content between multiple computers: iPods and iPhones “pair” to a single computer and will not allow users to copy digital content purchased at the iTunes store between multiple computers. It is important users carefully think through which of their computers should be paired with the device and “de-authorize” computers that won’t be used any longer.

source: macnn.com

Tunewear today unveiled three new additions to its Icewear line of iPod cases, introducing models for the iPod touch, Classic and Nano.
The Icewear is made of high density ribbed silicone which provides a sticky tactile feel, and is designed to absorb shocks and bumps from accidental drops. The case offers complete access to the iPod’s controls and ports, and features the company’s clear Tunefilm to protect the screen and scrollwheel. Tuneware says that the Icewear for the iPod touch and Nano are currently available from the company’s web site, with the Icewear for the iPod classic shipping during the first week of December.
Prices for the Icewear range from $20 to $30, depending on which model is purchased.

source: ipodnn.com

XtremeMac debuted its new Verona iPod case for Apple’s iPod touch, iPod classic, and current-generation iPod nano. The designer leather case aims to blend various aspects of fashion with functionality, protection, and style. Verona cases include different types and styles of leather enclosures, all hand-crafted from genuine leather with a soft interior lining. The Verona Flip cases for iPod touch and iPod classic are folio style cases with an integrated leather wrapped belt clip. The cases come in various colors and designs, ranging in price from $25-$30. You can pre-order the Verona cases via XtremeMac’s website, and are expected to ship in the coming weeks.

The Verona Flip’s front flap also folds over and snaps into a rear panel, creating a hands-free viewing stand for watching videos.
Verona Sleeves for iPod classic (shown at right) and iPod nano are designed to offer complete protection while providing access to all controls without adding bulk. Both versions of the case come with removable “TuffShield” protectors for the screen as well as the click-wheel, and the Nano version includes a carabineer for attaching the case to a backpack or purse.
The company’s Verona Holsters for iPod touch and iPod classic are designed as drop and go cases with integrated belt clips that offer protection with easy accessibility.

source: ipodnn.com

OtterBox today rolled out two new series of cases for Apple’s iPhone, Pod touch, iPod classic, and iPod nano. The company’s Defender series includes slim, rugged cases designed to keep Apple gadgets out of harms way without compromising style. The cases provide complete interaction via polycarbonate shells that snap together to safeguard the device within, while membranes protect the screen of every device as well as the iPod’s click-wheel. A silicone skin encompasses the entire case as well, providing additional protection from drops and bumps. Defender cases are priced at for Apple’s iPods, while Armor cases are priced at $50 for iPod touch and iPod classic vs. $40 for third-generation iPod nano (pricing for iPhone cases was unavailable).

A second set of cases, dubbed the Armor series, are designed to safeguard iPhones as well as iPods against rain and dirt. The cases feature a polycarbonate shell and impact-absorbing rubber inside to cradle the gadget within. The Armor series of cases cover click-wheels on iPods and screens on all devices with a thin, scratch-resistant polycarbonate membrane. Armor cases for iPod touch and iPod classic are priced at $50 each.

Toronto-based iSkin recently announced the iSkin touch, a duo-tone silicone case for the iPod touch. The case features a slim 1.5mm skin and a smudge-resistant film to protect the screen. The menu and sleep buttons are protected by the skin, and the dock and headphone ports are covered by a flap. iSkin touch leaves the ambient sensor open, and comes with the company’s removable revoClip, with the inclusion of a new silicone placeholder that prevents dust from entering the case when the clip is removed. The protective screen film offers glare reduction and anti-fingerprint properties, allowing for optimal viewing of the screen. iSkin is offering the iSkin touch in five color combinations: Oxygen (clear and black), Electra (sonic blue and black), Vanity (pink and black), Diablo (black and red), and Nighthawk (black and dark brown). The iSkin touch is currently shipping, selling for $30.

Fastmac today unveiled a 3-in-1 Universal Headphone adapter for Apple’s iPhone that features a built-in microp ($20, shown at right) incorporates all the features of both the basic and mid-level models and adds an adjustable volume slider as well as a noise suppressing microphone. The new adapters work with all iPhones and iPods, including Apple’s iPod touch, according to Fastmac.

“Replacing lost or damaged headphones can be expensive,” said Michael Lowdermilk, business development manager of Fastmac Performance Upgrades. “With our new 3-in-1 universal headphone adapter, you can re-use old iPod headsets that are probably laying about in a drawer unused ever since the iPhone came out & obviated the need to carry around another device!”

source: ipodnn.com

Like the prior Reflect for iPod touch, Griffin’s new Reflect cases for the iPod classic and third-generation iPod nano ($25 each) provide a combination of a mirror/chrome-finished front shell and a translucent rubberized rear shell to cover your iPod. Reflect for iPod nano comes in three versions — silver, pink, or blue — and the iPod classic version comes only in silver, but includes rear shells for the 80GB and 160GB iPod classic models. The silver versions of each case include black rear shells, while the pink and blue ones have matching pink and blue shells; all versions somewhat obscure the content of the iPod’s screen unless you turn the brightness up a bit to compensate. In our view, the silver versions look good enough to be worth the extra effort. Holes are left for the headphone port and the full bottom surface of each iPod, enabling it to be used in a Universal Dock without case removal.

source: ilounge.com

Accessory maker PDO has announced two new sets of iPod cases, the Aluminum V2 for Classics and the Aluminum N3 for 3G Nanos. The V2 is said to be the only aluminum case that covers both the screen and the clickwheel, the former with clear plastic, the latter with a colored silicone layer that still allows interaction. The inside of the case is lined with neoprene for shock protection, while openings permit access to the dock connector, hold switch and headphone jack. Accessories include a neckstrap and swiveling belt clip. The case is available in silver with a black clickwheel cover, or in black with blue, black or red clickwheel covers. It should ship towards the end of October, though pre-orders can be made now for $30.

The Aluminum N3 is nearly identical to the V2, but omits clickwheel protection, as well as any accessories. Black and silver colors should be available towards the end of October, but are again pre-orderable, here for $25. PDO also notes that it is now shipping its screen protector kits for the Touch, Classic and Nano, each actually containing pieces for the back and/or clickwheel as well. Spare protectors and a dust cloth are included at a cost of $9.

source: ipodnn.com

I enjoyed the protection the original iSkin eVo offered my third generation iPod, so iSkin was the first company on my mind when I bought my iPod video. The Toronto based company makes stylish looking products, without sacrificing functionality. The eVo3 carries this tradition forward with a wide color selection, quality materials, and a clever design. There are some minor annoyances, but I’ll touch on those later.

Stylish Design

When I took the eVo3 out of the box, I was pleased to see that it is made from the same material as my first iSkin eVo case. The case does not have a tacky and is not a magnet for lint and dust like competing silicone cases. It stays put on the desk because of its rubbery texture. The case consists of three pieces: a rubber wrap that covers everything but the screen, a clear front visor, and a rotating plastic belt clip. A small, inner plastic disk, with pegs poking through the back holds the belt clip in place. A soft membrane covers the disk, so it won’t scratch the iPod.

Snug Fit

You must decide whether you want to use the belt clip before you put your iPod in the case. To remove the belt clip you twist a small rotating lock out of position, and pivot it on the bottom peg. The belt clip has a smooth click to it as you rotate the iPod from upright to sideways.

To place the iPod in the eVo3, remove the plastic visor, slip the iPod through the hole intended for the screen, and massage the case into position. You must seat the corners of the visor inside the case, shifting it back and forth until the lip covers the entire edge. A rubber peg sticking out just underneath the embossed scroll wheel secures the visor in place. A rubber lip holds the front visor in place and closes off the screen almost completely. This prevents dust from settling under the visor.

The case adds a bit of bulk to your iPod, but since it’s designed to protect, this is acceptable. All of the iPod functions are accessible, and iSkin even provides a protective flap that covers the dock connector. The hold switch is covered by an embossed button, and moving the switch feels a little awkward at first.

Minor Annoyances

My complaints about the eVo3 are relatively minor. The integrated Dock Connector flap is part of the silicone case, so using it with most iPod dock-enabled music systems is difficult. The thickness that the case adds also makes it impossible to use with any custom fit dock inserts. You can easily remove the case when you need to dock it though.

The silicone texture is a little bit of a double-edged sword. I have a large music library, so I like to use the accelerated scrolling feature. The stickiness of the silicone prevents my thumb from rotating quickly. A little saliva on my thumb provides the necessary slickness for quick rotation.

I found out accidentally that the belt clip really does require a belt to be useful. Running for the bus one day, my iPod jumped off the hip of my jeans and bounced across the pavement. Luckily, thanks to the bouncy nature of the eVo3 silicone, my iPod was unharmed. Basically the clip doesn’t hold to cloth as well as it does to a leather belt. My iPod has been scratch free since I bought it a year ago, thanks to the eVo3.

Highly Recommended

iSkin offers replacement visors and belt clips, available through their online store. You can clean the case easily with soap and water. Overall, the eVo3 is one of the highest quality cases available on the market and I feel comfortable recommending it to anyone who is typically accident prone or hard on their equipment.

source: macnn.com