New Apple iPod products can only mean one thing - new iPod cases. One of the first vendors to announce a slew of new cases is Belkin (and I really do mean a slew of cases folks). Nothing fancy here - I’m just going to present to you the basic facts about all of these new cases (which covers iPod nano 4G and iPod touch 2G models). Here we go (thanks to the Belkin press release for all of this info).

Sport Armband Plus with FastFit for iPod nano 4G (F8Z376-NBY), iPod touch 2G (F8Z363-NBY), iPod classic 2G (F8Z388-NBY) - US: $29.99

• Removable sleeve with low-profile belt clip and key pouch
• Lightweight water-wicking materials
• Includes Cable Capsule for added headphone-cord management
• FastFit system for easy one-handed fastening
• Compatible with Nike+
• Clear screen protector allows for easy navigation
• Hand-washable

Sports Armband for iPod nano 4G (F8Z377-KG), iPod touch 2G (F8Z384-KG) - US: $19.99; iPod classic 2G (F8Z389) - US: $24.99

• Adjustable dual-fit system allows for best fit on any arm-maximizes sizing
• Clear screen protector allows for easy navigation
• Key pocket for convenient storage while at the gym or outdoors
• Reflective material for use during nighttime
• Compatible with Nike+
• Hand-washable

Clear Acrylic Case for iPod nano 4G (F8Z381-CLR) - US: $24.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z368) - US: $29.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z393-CLR) - US: $29.99

• iPod style and form shows through
• Click-wheel protection
• Sleek, form-fitting design minimizes bulk

Remix Metal for iPod nano 4G (F8Z381) - US: $24.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z393) - US: $29.99

• Metal faceplate
• Slim design minimizes bulk
• Click-wheel protection
• Available in red, silver, pink, and black

Sonic Wave Two-Tone Silicone Sleeve for iPod nano 4G (F8Z379) - US: $19.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z364) - US: $24.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z391) - US: $29.99

• Two-tone, laser-etched design
• Form-fitting construction allows charging while in sleeve
• Available in the following two-tone colors: black/infrared, cool gray/grapefruit, pink/translucent white, black/blue, black/green, black/white, blue/orange

Sonic Wave Silicone Sleeve, 2-pack for iPod nano 4G (F8Z380-BKW-2) - US: $19.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z367-2) - US: $19.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z392) - US: $19.99

• Textured exterior provides better grip
• Packs available in black/white, pink/purple, blue/orange

Simple Silicone Sleeve, 2-pack for iPod nano 4G (F8Z401-2) - US: $14.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z400-2) - US: $19.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z409) - US: $19.99

• Form-fitted to minimize bulk
• Available in black/black, black/blue, pink/translucent, red/gray

Leather Sleeve for iPod nano 4G (F8Z375) - US: $24.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z372) - US: $29.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z386) - US: $29.99

• Sleek design allows for easy pocket-, bag-, or hand-carrying
• Soft microfiber lining protects iPod from scratches
• VELCRO®
• brand closure keeps iPod secure
• Available in black and pink

Leather Folio for iPod nano 4G (F8Z374) - US: $24.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z373) - US: $29.99

• Soft microfiber lining protects iPod from scratches
• VELCRO®
• brand closure keeps iPod secure
• Available in black and pink

Leather Pull-Tab Holster for iPod touch 2G (F8Z362) - US: $29.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z387) - US: $29.99

• Elastic tab automatically retracts for quick and easy removal from case
• Sleek design minimizes bulk

Eco-Conscious Folio for iPod nano 4G (F8Z395) - US: $24.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z396) - US: $29.99

• Form-fitting leather construction with natural felt interior
• Vegetable-tanned rather than chemically stained
• Available in black and walnut

Eco-Conscious Sleeve for iPod nano 4G (F8Z383) - US: $24.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z369) - US: $29.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z394) - US: $29.99

• Form-fitting leather construction with natural felt interior
• Vegetable-tanned rather than chemically stained
• Available in black and walnut

Screen Overlay, 3-pack for iPod nano 4G (F8Z382) - US: $12.99, iPod touch 2G (F8Z371) - US: $14.99, iPod classic 2G (F8Z385) - US: $14.99

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Belkin, iPod nano 4G, iPod touch 2G, cases

Dell is taking a page out of Apple’s business model by introducing a new line of bags and accessories dubbed “Designed for Dell”. These are products designed by third party manufacturers that complement the latest Dell PCs such as the Studio laptops that were recently introduced. This is Dell’s attempt to create an industry similar to what we’ve seen with Apple’s iPod/iPhone product line - third party products that accentuate the capabilities of the main product. In this case, we’ve got the new Dell Studio notebook which is just begging for matching case designs, cool looking speakers, hard drives for more storage space, and funky mice. Current manufacturers participating in the Designed for Dell program include:

• Belkin: Backpacks and messenger cases
• Built: Computer sleeves, cargo bags and portfolios
• Creative Labs: Headphones and speakers
• Iomega: Portable hard drives
• Logitech: Mice
• Swiss Gear: Backpacks
• Targus: Messenger cases and accessories bundles

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Dell, Designed for Dell, Belkin, Built, Creative Labs, Iomega, Logitech, Swiss Gear, Targus

If you need a portable recording device for interviews, lectures, recording notes, creating podcasts, then you’ll want to check out the new Belkin GoStudio device. Designed as an accessory to the Apple iPod, the GoStudio features two built-in omnidirectional microphones and records audio directly to your iPod in 16 bit 44kHz format. Other features of the Belkin GoStudio include:

• Built-in speaker allows users to play back recordings
• Two combo microphone inputs (XLR and 1/4 inch)
• 3.5 mm mini-jack microphone inputs
• Master level control
• Direct monitor volume control
• Tripod mount

The Belkin GoStudio will be available sometime in September/October for a price of $119.99.

[Check it out]

Technorati Tags: Belkin GoStudio, Podcast recording,

As mobile processors get more cores and more powerful in general, it’s inevitable that notebooks will get hotter and hotter. As a result, Belkin is releasing four new products designed to help keep notebooks cooler as well as protect your lap from the increasing heat. They are as follows:

CushTop Hideaway (F8N081) - $64.99

• Designed for comfortable laptop use on the couch, bed, or floor
• Stores power supply inside
• Made of durable microfiber

Laptop Cooling Hub (F5L025) - $49.99

• 4 USB ports add a convenient connection to other devices
• Works with laptops up to 17″

Laptop Cooling Lounge (F5L028) - $39.99

• Extra width and adjustable height make it more comfortable to work with your laptop on your lap
• Cooling fan keeps the heat from your laptop off your legs
• Works with laptops up to 17″

Laptop CoolStrip (F5L033) - $19.99

• Unique product design offers non-powered laptop cooling
• Works with laptops up to 17″
• Washable with mild soap and water, dishwasher-safe

Technorati Tags: Belkin, CushTop Hideaway (F8N081), Laptop Cooling Hub (F5L025), Laptop Cooling Lounge (F5L028), Laptop CoolStrip (F5L033)

OK - just a forewarning folks - the next several postings are all about new Belkin products. So without further ado, here we go!

First off, Belkin announced several new products tailored for the ASUS Eee PC and mini-notebooks/netbooks in general - three types of cases and two types of mice.

The cases are as follows:

Mini Laptop Quilted Case (F8N085) - US: $19.99

• Quilted texture protects laptop from light wear and tear while on the go
• Lightweight
• Made with durable polyester
• Fits 7″ laptops

Mini Laptop Carrying Case (F8N084) - US: $24.99

• Protects laptop anywhere you go
• Includes detachable strap for carrying ease
• Outside pockets give extra storage room for accessories
• Made with durable neoprene

Neoprene Sleeve (F8N082) - US: $12.99

• Light and durable sleeve protects laptop from minor scratches en route.
• Stow it inside your own bag
• Made with durable neoprene

The two mice are as follows:

Wireless Travel Mouse (F5L017-USB) - US: $19.99

• Perfect for taking on the road–no messy cables to get tangled, and more comfortable to use than your laptop’s track pad.
• Features 3 programmable buttons: micro switch, mechanical scrolling wheel, and depressing function on wheel
• Features on and off switch to save power when not in use
• Works with USB
• Compatible with Windows(R) 2000, XP, and Vista
• Compatible with Mac OS(R) X v10.4

Retractable Mouse (F5L016-USB) - US: $14.99

• Retractable cable stays untangled and out of your way
• Powered via USB cable
• Compatible with Windows(R) 2000, XP, and Vista
• Compatible with Mac OS(R) X v10.4

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I totally missed Belkin’s product announcements last week with regards to the newly announced Apple MacBook Air notebook. The company introduced several new lines of notebook sleeves designed for the MacBook Air (yes sleeves are in these days aren’t they?). The new products are as follows:

Slim-Fit Sleeve for MacBook Air:

• Insert the MacBook Air and flip the top over to secure it in place
• Made of high quality neoprene for protection and cushioning
• MSRP of $39.99

Leather/Neoprene Sleeve for MacBook Air:

• Asymmetrical zipper gives you flexibility to access the notebook from the top or the side
• Made of high quality leather and neoprene
• MSRP of $49.99

Neoprene Sleeve for MacBook Air

• Designed to keep the MacBook Air snug and protected
• MSRP of $49.99

Vertical Sleeve with Strap for MacBook Air:

• Slim-Fit Strap gives you flexibility to carry your MacBook Air in your arms or on your shoulder
• Eliminates the need to put your Sleeve in another bag
• MSRP of $49.99

Technorati Tags: Belkin, MacBook Air, Sleeves

Creating audio podcasts might not get much simpler than this folks. It’s the new $99 dollar Belkin Podcast Studio - a portable, battery operated device which allows you to create high quality recordings wherever you go. Simply dock the iPod into the Podcast Studio and begin recording full length audio episodes, interviews, or short clips directly onto the iPod. Once you’re finished with the recording, connect your iPod with your computer and have your newly created content uploaded straight to iTunes.

Features include:

• Built in microphone and speaker for playback
• 2 Channels - XLR and 1/4 inch
• Battery powered

The Podcast Studio is compatible with the 5th gen iPod, iPod classic, and iPod nano - 3rd gen. You can expect to find the Podcast Studio in June of 2008 for an MSRP of $99.99.

Technorati Tags: Belkin, Podcast Studio, CES 2008, Podcasts

Belkin has introduced two new products designed to make it easier for you to find a clear FM channel to transmit audio from your iPod or iPhone player - the TuneBase FM for iPhone and iPod and the TuneCast Auto for iPhone and iPod. Both products feature Belkin’s ClearScan technology which automatically finds the best FM frequency to transmit music over at the push of a button. The TuneBase FM also includes a convenient mount for your iPod or iPhone.

TuneBase FM for iPhone and iPod - $99.99

Features include:

• Features ClearScan technology
• Includes line-out for use with car stereo inputs or cassette adapter
• Pro setting optimizes audio and boosts volume
• Transmits audio wirelessly on multiple FM channels from 88.1 MHz to 107.9 MHz
• Multiple cradles fit any docking iPod
• Flexible neck offers convenient easy repositioning of your iPod

TuneCast Auto for iPhone and iPod - $79.99

Features include

Technorati Tags: Belkin, TuneBase FM for iPhone and iPod, TuneCast Auto for iPhone and iPod, CES 2008

You have to hand it to Belkin for some of their new 2008 products - they certainly are stylish in design. Case in point - their new Belkin SOHO KVM switch. Come on.. at first glance would you have known this this was a KVM switch? In actuality, this is a four port (also available in 2 port models) USB KVM switch allowing you to share a single monitor, keyboard, and mouse between two or more computers. The design incorporates a built-in USB 2.0 2 port hub and touch sensitive buttons on the front for easy switching between systems. There’s a convenient USB port on the front which is great for connecting additional devices to  your computers.

The Belkin SOHO USB KVM switch is available in several different models.

For VGA, USB and PS2 support:

• 2 port (F1DS102J) - MSRP of $159
• 4 port (F1DS104J) - MSRP of $189

For VGA and USB support:

• 2 port (F1DS102L) - MSRP of $159
• 4 port (F1DS104L) - MSRP of $189

For DVI and USB support:

• 2 port (F1DD102L) - MSRP of $219
• 4 port (F1DD104L) - MSRP of $269

Features include:

• KVM cables and USB 2.0 2 port hub (1 port in the front and 1 port in the back) included
• Hot-key support
• Features independent audio switching
• Touch sensitive buttons on front with icons indicating what port you’re on

Technorati Tags: Belkin SOHO KVM, CES 2008

Remember those high school days when you’re listening to a song and you want your friend to  listen to the same track too? You’d have to pull out one earbud and share it with your friend (think of how nasty that was folks!) Well Belkin has a new way for you to share music with one or more friends with the Belkin RockStar. This small simple device splits a single audio connection into five ports - allowing you to share your music to four other friends (assuming you take one of the ports of course).

But WAIT - that’s NOT ALL! You can take this whole concept a step further. Instead of connecting headphones to the jacks, you can attach additional MP3 players to the ports and mix songs together. There’s one hard-wired connection to an MP3 player and five ports to attach headphones or MP3 players. The device comes with an included cable for another MP3 player. Mixing and fade-in’s are controlled by the standard controls for each MP3 player.

The Belkin RockStar will be available in the US in March of 2008 and in Canada, Europe, Asia, and Australia in April of 2008. The MSRP is $19.99.

Technorati Tags: Belkin RockStar, CES 2008