What better way to distinguish your sofa than by integrating an iPod dock and speakers directly into the furniture. That’s exactly what Italian furniture manufacturer, Natuzzi, has done with their new “Surround” sectional.

The corner piece of the Surround features an integrated iPod dock and two speakers providing an intimate relaxing audio experience for those on the sofa.

The Surround features high-quality leather along with a range of colors to choose from.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Natuzzi Surround Sectional

If you’re looking for an alternative way of charging that iPhone or iPod touch of yours, you might want to check out the environmentally-friendly (a.k.a. “green”) Novothink Surge solarcharger series of cases.

The Surge is labeled as a “hybrid solar charger” since it’s capable of charging the iPhone or iPod touch while you’re on the go and in the sun or while its connected to your computer via a USB connection. Even better – the Surge comes with a built-in rechargeable battery providing additional juice to your iPhone or iPod when you’re not in the Sun or near a PC/outlet.

And while you might think a solar power-based charger might be bulky, the Surge is in fact reasonably dimensioned. The iPod touch version measures 2.65 x 0.75 x 4.875 inches while the iPhone version measures 2.65 x 0.875 x 4.875 inches. Yes – your device will be a tad bit thicker but you get the convenience of charging under the sun!

Speaking of convenience, Novothink also has a free application (The Solar Planner App) which tries to estimate your solar needs based on your device usage patterns. Pretty nifty.

Other features and specs include:

• Full access to the touch-screen display
• Cutout for attaching a wrist strip or trinket etc
• Soft-touch non-slip finish
• LED status light indicators
• Integrated rechargeable 1500mAh 3.7 V lithium-ion polymer battery offers 120% capacity of iPod touch (1320 mAh 3.7 V battery for the iPhone version providing 105% capacity of the iPhone)
• Built-in 30 pin dock connector

The Surge for the iPhone is available in either black or white, with additional colors coming soon. The Surge for the iPod touch is currently only available in black.

Price wise, the Surge for the iPod touch is currently on sale for $52.95 (normally $69.96). The Surge for the iPhone is currently available for $79.95.

Here are pics of the Surge for the iPhone:

Here are pics of the Surge for the iPod touch:

[Check out the Surge for the iPod touch]

[Check out the Surge for the iPhone]

via ChipChick

Technorati Tags: Novothink Surge, iPod touch case, iPhone case, Solar-charging case

Fans of Mickey and Minnie Mouse, listen up. Sony Japan is now offering special engraved versions of the NW-S740 and NW-S640 series of Walkman players featuring Mickey, Minnie, or the two of them together. Yeah – seems like Mickey and Minnie are still popular in the Land of the Rising Sun. Sorry but SonyStyle USA doesn’t have them as of yet (and no word whether they’ll be coming to the U.S.).

[Check it out via Akihabara News]

Technorati Tags: Disney, Sony, SonyStyle Japan, Walkman NW-S740, Walkman NW-S640

Samsung R0:

The R0’s claim to fame is it’s “Drag’n Play” functionality – allowing you to simply place your media onto the player without worrying about any conversion process. The player directly supports DivX playback – a joy for folks who have huge quantities of DivX material. Specs of the R0 include:

• 2.6 inch LCD display
• Tactile navigation keys
• Add storage via microSD slot
• Supports Samsung’s Digital Natural Sound Engine (DNSe) 3.0 sound enhancement technology
• Available in black, silver, and pink
• Six hours of video playback or 30 hours of audio playback
• Built-in FM radio

The R0 is available in 8GB or 16GB capacities with the 8GB priced at $99.99 and the 16GB priced at $129.99. Both versions will be coming out in April.

Samsung R1:

The R1 has the footprint of a credit card yet is capable of playing a variety of multimedia file formats. Specs of the R1 include:

• 2.4 inch TFT LCD display
• Drag and Drop feature
• Supports music, video, and photo playback
• 50 hours of audio playback or four hours of video playback
• Built-in FM radio and recorder
• Voice recorder
• Bluetooth support
• Supports Samsung’s Digital Natural Sound Engine (DNSe) 3.0 sound enhancement technology

The R1 is available in 8GB nd 16GB capacities with the 8GB priced at $149.99 while the 16GB is priced at $179.99. Both versions will be available in April.

Technorati Tags: Samsung R0, Samsung R1, portable media player

The Apple iTunes Store hit a major milestone recently. Customers to the store have purchased and downloaded over 10 billion songs. Count ‘em up.. 10 billion songs. 

The 10 billionth song was “Guess Things Happen That Way” by Johnny Cash and the lucky customer to buy that song was Louie Sulcer of Woodstock, Georgia. As the winner of the iTunes Countdown to 10 Billion Songs, Louie will receive a whopping $10,000 iTunes Gift Card.

So what titles would you get with a $10K gift card?

Better yet – how many songs do you have guys have that are NOT from the iTunes Store?

Technorati Tags: Apple iTunes, iTunes Store

The new Belkin TuneCast Auto LIVE FM transmitter is now available for purchase here in North America for a price of $79.99. What makes the TuneCast Auto LIVE different from other FM transmitters out there is the ClearScan LIVE iPhone application which is available as a free download via the iTunes Store.

The ClearScan LIVE iPhone application uses the iPhone’s GPS system and location-based user feedback to determine the best FM station to transmit over. Simply press a single button and the application will scan for the clearest frequency and best audio quality. The application also allows you to control the FM transmission and music directly on the iPhone.

Other features include:

• Compatibility with iPod touch, nano, and classic
• High contrast LCD display for easy viewing
• Two programmable preset buttons
• Charges through car’s 12 volt lighter outlet

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Belkin TuneCast Auto LIVE, FM Transmitter

Above (and below) is the new iLuv 2.1 Channel Hi-Fi Audio System for the Apple iPod (model i398). Aside from pumping out 2.1 channel sound, the i398 has a unique beat-sensitive mood light (in blue) located in the center-bottom of the system. Other features include:

• Digital clock display
• Aux line input for third party audio devices with 3.5 mm jack
• 3.5 mm stereo headphone jack
• Plays and charges iPod via universal iPod dock
• Programmable presets for up to 20 FM radio stations
• FM Stereo Radui
• Speakerphone

The unit is also iLuv BluePin ready (which is sold separately). The system is priced at $179.99

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: iLuv, iLuv 2.1 Channel Hi-Fi Audio System for iPod, CES 2010

It’s best described as an iPod/iPhone speaker dock with added functionality courtesy of a free downloadable app courtesy of iLuv. The initial app turns the iPhone into a large display digital alarm clock with weather information as well as a visual responsive equalizer.

You can place the iPod/iPhone vertically or horizontally depending on your needs (horizontally if you want to watch a video while the player is docked).

The App Station can be left on the desktop or brought with you courtesy of the use of 6 AA batteries (it can also be AC operated). Other features include:

• Plays and charges the iPod/iPhone
• On/Off button
• Dynamic acoustic speaker chamber
• Aux line input supports any audio device with a 3.5 mm jack
• Dedicated snooze button

Technorati Tags: iLuv, iLuv App Station Rotational Alarm Clock Dock for iPhone and iPod, CES 2010

The IceTouch YP-H1:

Features include:

• The world’s first 2 inch full-color, transparent AMOLED touch-screen display
• DVD quality video player
• Studio quality audio player
• Photo album support
• Built-in FM radio
• Portable storage
• High-performance CPU
• “TouchWiz Sweep” interface designed for comfortable grip and gives new options for interacting with the player
• 5.1 channel sound enhancement technology
• Supports MP3, WMA, OGG, FLAC, AAC, M4A, WAV and MP3HD audio codecs
• Supports MPEG4, WMV, H.264, Xvid and Divx video files
• Continually analyzes and adjusts audio levels to reflect the producer’s intended sound

The player is constructed using a dual-injection molding process and tempered glass which results in a “smooth, durable and scratch-proof surface”. IceTouch is available with 16GB of storage space and color skins including white, pink, blue, purple and gray.

The MyFit (YP-W1):

Features include:

• First wellness-promoting technology on a music player
• Helps monitor stress level, fat thickness, calorie intake and burn, and exercise effectiveness
• Music can be collected into a jogging playlist
• Change songs via simple tapping control jogging mode
• Fat and stress sensors are located on top of the player
• Exercise management program built-in to track calories burned while jogging
• Water intake manager and smoking cessation utility
• Built-in FM radio tuner
• DNSe 3.0 sound enhancement technology
• Supports MP3, WMA, OGG, and AAC, as well as MPEG4 and WMV video formats.
• 8GB of storage space

Both players are expected in the first half of 2010.

Technorati Tags: Samsung, IceTouch YP-H1, MyFit YP-W1

Buffalo Technology introduces the new Dualie USB drive/docking station featuring a 500GB portable drive as well as a secondary dock supporting sync/charge of an Apple iPod/iPhone. Users can sync and charge the iPhone while simultaneously accessing the included 500GB drive.

The Dualie features both a USB 2.0 and a Firewire 800 port on the Mac-formatted 500GB portable hard drive while providing a two-port USB 2.0 hub on the docking station.

Here’s the back of the drive.

Other features and specs to the Dualie include:

• Chic brushed aluminum and black soft touch two-tone finish
• Includes adapters for iPhone 3G/3GS, iPod touch 2nd gen, iPod classic, and iPod nano 5th gen
• Supports Apple Time Machine

The Dualie is an Apple Store exclusive and will be priced at $249.99.

Technorati Tags: Buffalo Technology, Dualie

First-time CES participant Geneva Lab announces their latest iPod speaker dock offering – the new GenevaSound System Model S. The system which makes it debut at CES 2010 includes their new PowerDock connector, new TouchLight controls, and a built-in digital radio tuner along with an alarm clock. The entire package has a price of $299 and is expected to hit electronic stores nationwide and Apple retail stores this month.

PowerDock is essentially a motorized dock connector which spins closed and disappears into the cabinet, thereby protecting the dock when the iPod or iPhone isn’t connected to the unit. To reconnect the media player, simply touch the GenevaSound S and the PowerDock spins open.

The TouchLight control system is a backlit, touch-sensitive control system that are invisible until a hand reaches for the cabinet. The system offers extensive control over the iPod and even mimics the iPod’s wheel.

The GenevaSound S is available in red, white, and black piano lacquer and is even available with a table stand which elevates the system.

The full specs to the GenevaSound S include:

• Two 3 inch full-range speakers
• Two bass ports with dynamic loudness
• Two Class D digital amps
• Digital Radio
• Digital Clock with alarm
• EnbracingSound DSP restores and improves compressed music files
• PowerDock
• TouchLight controls
• Line-in jack for external audio sources

The goal for Geneva Lab? To deliver premium sound that you’d expect from Bang & Olufsen products at price points far lower than B&F products.

Geneva Labs also has several other GenevaSound products – all named after their corresponding sizes. The other models go by the model M, L, XL, and of course, XXL. Pretty easy to remember I think.

Technorati Tags: Geneva Lab, GenevaSound S

iLuv announces the new iLuv App Station, an App-driven Rotational Alarm Clock Dock for the Apple iPhone and iPod. Buy the dock, download the iLuv application (which is free from the Apple App Store and available following the release of the App Station), and turn the App Station portable desktop speaker into a large digital display alarm clock complete with customizable settings and looks to match your personal tastes. The unit comes with vertical or horizontal standing options and lets you watch movies or listen to music too. Expect the new iLuv App Station to be available starting in February for a price of $129.99.

Technorati Tags: iLuv App Station Alarm Clock Dock

This funky looking iPod docking station is the new JVC XS-SR3 surround dock. The system features a glossy black speaker tube with a curved design that surrounds the iPod. The iPod holder can position the device vertically for music listening or horizontally (see below) for watching videos and comes with four clips to hold selected iPod models. The speakers utilize neodymium magnets while the system supports Dolby Virtual Surround which creates the illusion of a wider sound field.

The XS-SR3 has a power output of 5 watts, and comes with two audio inputs, one analog, and one digital optical input. You can also use the XS-SR3 as a computer speaker system. Expect the docking station this month for $149.95.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: JVC XS-SR3 surround iPod dock

Belkin’s new Bluetooth Music Receiver allows you to wirelessly transmit music from your Apple iPhone or iPod touch (or any A2DP stereo Bluetooth enabled audio device) to your home stereo system. Simply connect the Bluetooth Music Receiver to your home stereo system and then pair the receiver with your iPod touch or iPhone device. Once paired, you’ll be able to listen to, share, and control your music from distances up to 33 feet away from the receiver using your iPhone/iPod touch. The Belkin Music Receiver supports Bluetooth 2.0, can remember up to six paired devices, and comes with 3.5mm to RCA and 3.5mm to 3.5mm cables.

Expect the Belkin Bluetooth Music Receiver to be available in March for a suggested retail price of $49.99.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Belkin Bluetooth Music Receiver, Bluetooth 2.0, Apple iPhone, Apple iPod touch

Speakal is at it again. Not content with the iPig, iPanda, nor the iBoo, the company announces the new miSoccer iPod Docking Station Speaker with Enhanced Audio Technology – just in time for the upcoming World Cup. Featuring a soccer ball-like shape, the miSoccer delivers 23+ watts of power through the 15 watt subwoofer and two multi-way speakers – not bad eh?

Features include:

• Compatible with all iPods via dock connector
• Compatible with audio devices that come with 3.5 mm jack
• 360 degree sound distribution
• Hi-Fi amplification system with dynamic airflow optimizer and a cooling exchange system
• Humanized Touch Controls on top of miSoccer allow adjustment of volume level and selection of desired track by touch
• Multi-functional remote to control volume, bass, and treble as well as full control of docked iPod
• Available in black & white, red & white, and blue & white

The miSoccer is available now at www.speakal.com/misoccer.html for a price of $119.99.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Speakal miSoccer iPod Docking Station Speaker, iPod docking station

Nokia announced their flagship “Comes With Music” phone, the X6, is now available in select markets with a retail price of around EUR 450. The Nokia X6 features 32GB of storage space, support for all major digital music formats, a 3.2 inch touch-screen display, and a 5 megapixel digital camera. However what makes the X6 truly unique is the ability for owners to download all the music they want for free from the Nokia Music Store – that’s millions of tracks of music to choose from folks. In addition, Comes With Music subscribers will be able to download exclusive content directly to their device or to a PC from both international superstars as well as local artists.

Features and specs for the Nokia X6 Comes With Music phone include:

• Unlimited free downloads from Nokia Music Store
• 5 megapixel camera with Carl Zeiss optics with dual LED flash
• Mix in music with your photos and upload to favorite websites
• Scratch-resistant 3.2 inch touch-screen display with 640 x 320 resolution and support for up to 16.7 million colors
• Dedicated Media Bar touch key for access to music, gallery, share online, video center, and web browser
• Physical keys for application launch (menu key), send and end, power, camera, lock, volume up and down
• Voice commands
• Instantly access your friends via Contacts Bar and see latest updates from favorite social networking sites on homescreen
• Extended battery life
• Built-in speakers
• 3.5 mm Nokia AV connector
• WCDMA 900/1900/2100, GSM/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900
• GSM/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900 (Latin America and Brazil variant only)
• WCDMA 900/1900/2100, GSM/EDGE 850/900/1800/1900, 2G QB (China variant)
• Bluetooth 2.0 + EDR
• Integrated hands-free speakerphone
• Email, messaging, web browsing
• integrated aGPS
• Measures 111.0 x 51.0 x 13.8 mm and weighs 122 grams

The X6 also comes with three embedded games – Spore by EA, Asphalt4 and DJ Mix Tour by Gameloft, and direct access from the homescreen to download more games and applications through the Ovi Store.

The X6 will initially be available in Europe, Eurasia and Middle-East and Africa. You’ll be able to order the phone from http://europe.nokia.com/buy-online

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Nokia X6 Comes With Music

Apple’s Black Friday sales are up on their website here. Here’s a quick summary of some of their deals:

• Apple iMac 21.5 inch 3.06GHz, 4GB RAM and 500GB HDD for $1098
• Apple iMac 21.5 inch 3.06GHz, 4GB RAM and 1TB HDD for $1398
• Apple iMac 27 inch 3.06GHz 4GB RAM, and 1TB HDD for $1598
• 13 inch MacBook Pro with 2.26GHz Core 2 Duo for $1098
• 13 inch MacBook Pro with 2.53GHz Core 2 Duo for $1398
• 15 inch MacBook Pro with 2.53GHz Core 2 Duo for $1598
• 17 inch MacBook Pro with 2.8GHz Core 2 Duo for $2398
• 8GB iPod nano for $138
• 16GB iPod nano for $168
• 8GB iPod touch for $178
• 32GB iPod touch for $268
• 64GB iPod touch for $358
• Apple TV 160GB for $208
• 1TB Time Capsule for $278
• Airport Express Base Station with 802.11n and AirTunes for $88
• Apple Magic Mouse for $64

Check out many more deals here

Technorati Tags: Apple, Black Friday Deals

Chinon Corporation announces a complete music and TV solution today with the introduction of the AVi, the industry’s first portable iPod docking station with built-in LCD monitor and digital TV tuner. You’ll be able to view content, listen to music, and watch TV, all from a single docking station.

Features and specs include:

• Combines the look of a retro boom box with a modern rubberized black finish and silver trim
• 7 inch LCD monitor
• AUX input
• ATSC digital TV tuner with AV out
• Built-in telescopic radio antenna
• External telescopic TV antenna
• Digital FM and alarm clock
• Full-function remote
• Plays local TV channels, and content from iPod including music videos, pre-recorded movies, TV shows, and videos
• 3 hour battery life
• Plays and charges iPod at the same time

The AVi can be purchased for $199.99 only at www.chinonusa.com.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Chinon Corporation, AVi iPod docking station

Microsoft released version 4.3 of their Zune HD firmware today. The new update includes bug fixes, support for 3D games, and new applications to the Zune HD. The list of fixes (courtesy of Digital Trends) are as follows:

Interface Changes:

• Apps open and close faster
• Quicker startup time (it was up to 30 seconds or more before)
• Touchscreen is supposed to be more accurate

Music:

• More detailed artist bios with links to related songs, other artists and albums and other information
• On the radio you now have a choice of seek method in the settings

Keyboard:

• Keyboard option has been added in the settings menu
• larger landscale keyboard

Other:

• Faster web browsing
• Auto suggest feature for text input

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Zune HD firmware update 4.3

Elgato EyeTV users will be happy to hear that the company has released an EyeTV app for the Apple iPhone/iPod touch allowing users to watch live TV or recorded TV directly on their devices as well as browse the detailed program guide. Other features include:

• The ability to connect to any Mac running the latest EyeTV version (3.2)
• Automatically finds Macs on a network via Bonjour
• Remote access Macs running EyeTV using a free locator utility called “My EyeTV” also being introduced as part of EyeTV 3.2
• Support for Apple’s new HTTP streaming technology introduced with iPhone OS 3.0. Relies on Apple’s specs for adaptive streaming using H.264 video and AAC audio codecs. Also uses iPhone’s hardware acceleration for playback
• Once connected to a Mac, plays live TV, change channels, watch EyeTV recordings, browse the Program Guide, and start/schedule recordings
• Requires Wi-Fi connection (sorry no 3G support here)

EyeTV is available for a price of $4.99 at the iTunes Store. EyeTV 3.2 is a free update for EyeTV 3 users. Now if someone would only release a Windows Media Center compatible app for the iPhone…

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Elgato EyeTV, iPhone Application