Switched http://www.switched.com Switched http://www.switched.com/media/feedlogo.gif Switched http://www.switched.com en-us Copyright 2008 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Freak Helicopter Death Sparks Baffling Debate About Headphone Safety]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/16/freak-helicopter-death-sparks-baffling-debate-about-headphone-sa/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/16/freak-helicopter-death-sparks-baffling-debate-about-headphone-sa/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/16/freak-helicopter-death-sparks-baffling-debate-about-headphone-sa/#commentsFiled under: ,

Death By Helicopter Leads to Curious Questions about Headphone Safety

Reports of an aircraft crash usually result in news reports expressing doubts about travel by air, investigations into the cause of the crash, and, of course, questions regarding whether the crash could have been prevented. But what do you do if you're a news outlet and everyone else has already covered those obvious angles to the point of tedium? Easy: You find some completely unrelated detail of the story and try to blow it way out of proportion. That seems to be what Canada's Globe and Mail newspaper is up to, with a report indicating that the real problem for the man killed yesterday by a falling helicopter wasn't the spinning blades that decapitated him, but rather the MP3 player he was wearing.

The story states that the 23-year-old victim who was killed on the ground by the stricken copter, Isaiah Otieno, frequently listened to his music player while he was out and about. The implication is, naturally, that if he didn't have his player on he might have heard the copter and been able to dive out of the way.

To us, the idea that we shouldn't wear music players in public for fear of helicopters falling on our blissfully ignorant heads seems a bit preposterous -- just like last year's failed attempt to ban listening to music players in New York City while crossing the street. If you live in a city and can't safely cross the road with your ears plugged, then chances are you're going to have issues surviving on the streets anyway. And, if you have a helicopter falling in your general direction, then you have bigger things to worry about than the volume of your MP3 player. [Source: Globe and Mail]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewshelicopteripodkiller gadgetsKillerGadgetslawMP3 playerMp3PlayerweirdFri, 16 May 2008 10:34:00 EST<![CDATA[Is Apple Developing a Mobile Gaming Platform?]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/is-apple-developing-a-mobile-game-platform/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/is-apple-developing-a-mobile-game-platform/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/is-apple-developing-a-mobile-game-platform/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Could the iPhone and the iPod Touch be part of the next great mobile gaming platform?

Game developers and Apple fans are licking their chops, awaiting the opportunities to create and play games on the go with these devices. And as Apple has already changed the way people everywhere listen to and collect music, we're sure they're equally excited about making an impact on the mobile gaming marketplace.

According to the Industry Standard "A trademark extension filed last February with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office extends Apple's trademark in regards to:

'Toys, games and playthings, namely, hand-held units for playing electronic games; hand-held units for playing video games; stand alone video game machines; electronic games other than those adapted for use with television receivers only; LCD game machines; electronic educational game machines; toys, namely battery-powered computer games.'"

That's a mouthful, for sure, but it also points to Apple's renewed interest in the gaming arena, which is certainly hot, although competitive as all get out. This isn't Apple's first effort in gaming, but the last time the company tried to find its way with a gaming device was in 1996, during the non-Steve Jobs era. The device console, called the Pippin, was a failure.

Now the iPhone and the iPod Touch are flying high. Could this be the time for Apple to make its mark with yet another way to keep you focused on a tiny LCD screen? [Source: The Industry Standard].
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Applehandheld gamingHandheldGamingFri, 09 May 2008 17:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Mother's Day Gift Guide: Engraved iPod Nano]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/top-12-gadget-gifts-for-mom-7/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/top-12-gadget-gifts-for-mom-7/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/09/top-12-gadget-gifts-for-mom-7/#commentsFiled under: , ,



Maybe Mom wants something tiny and shiny? Though it may sound like a cliche gift, the neat and petite (GB) iPod Nano is still the ultra-portable music, video, and image player that we love best. It's simply the easiest way for your Mom to stay on top of her favorite TV or radio shows (thanks to availability on iTunes and radio podcasts of most major radio broadcasts) while on the go. And though there are seven colors to choose from, we suggest the newest addition in a bright, happy pink. The 4-gigabyte (GB) unit retails for $149 and the 8-gigabyte (GB) unit retails for $199. The price includes free engraving on the back for any thoughts you may have for Mom on this special day.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Fri, 09 May 2008 10:34:00 EST<![CDATA[NBC Offering 'The Office' and '30 Rock' for Free on iPhone and Touch]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/08/nbc-offering-the-office-and-30-rock-for-free-on-iphone-and-t/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/08/nbc-offering-the-office-and-30-rock-for-free-on-iphone-and-t/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/08/nbc-offering-the-office-and-30-rock-for-free-on-iphone-and-t/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

NBC Offering 'The Office' and '30 Rock' for Free on iPhones and iPod Touches
You might remember that last summer NBC announced that it would be pulling its shows off iTunes because it wanted to saddle its videos with more restrictive Digital Rights Management (DRM) and be able to jack up its prices. Regardless of its motives, fans of NBC, Sci-Fi Channel, or Bravo shows who also had iPods and iPhones were out of luck.

But five months after the official end of the iTunes and NBC partnership, there is some hope on the horizon for the fans of at least two of NBC's Thursday-night comedies. The network has launched an iPhone and iPod Touch friendly version of its Web site featuring full episodes of two of its most popular shows, 'The Office' and '30 Rock,' with more to follow, we're sure.

Best of all, the episodes are free, unhindered by DRM, and completely lacking commercial interruption. Just don't exit Safari or you'll be forced to download the videos all over again. [Source: Silicon Alley Insider, Via: Geeksugar]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>30 rock30Rockbreaking newsBreakingNewsfree tvFreeTvipod touchIpodTouchnbconline videoOnlineVideothe officeTheOfficeThu, 08 May 2008 17:34:00 EST<![CDATA[10 Least Useful iPod Accessories]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/05/10-least-useful-ipod-accessories/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/05/10-least-useful-ipod-accessories/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/05/10-least-useful-ipod-accessories/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Okay, so the all-singing, all-dancing iPod is great for many things: Listening to music, watching movies, and ... well, that's kinda it, actually. But, like any social phenomenon, the iPod has had its fair share of exploitation by various corporate hangers-on.

So the folks at Cracked have compiled a list of the least useful iPod accessories money can (but really shouldn't) buy, ranging from an iPod breathalyzer to a hyper-uglifying bulletproof iPod case. But the worst bang for our collective buck? It's a toss-up between the SongThong (pictured above), which was seemingly designed solely on account of the fact that the names rhymed, and the PodShave/PodShaveLady, which was designed solely on account of some designer's deep psychological delusions. Cracked succinctly summarizes the device for us:

"Great for morons and camping enthusiasts, the PodShave and PodShaveLady are electric razor attachments that utilize your iPod's battery. It costs $41.05, and supposedly can both suck up your stubble as it shaves it off, and allow you to listen to your music as you shave."

If someone gives you any of these as a gift, immediately disavow them as friends and move on with your life.
[Source: Cracked]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsfunnyipod accessoriesIpodAccessoriesweirdMon, 05 May 2008 10:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Is This the New iPhone?]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/02/next-gen-iphone-spotted-in-the-wild/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/02/next-gen-iphone-spotted-in-the-wild/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/02/next-gen-iphone-spotted-in-the-wild/#commentsFiled under: ,

Well here's an interesting one. French iPhone blog iPhon.fr got these pics from an anonymous and unverified source, and while there's no way of telling if the shots are legit, they certainly have a truthy ring to them. They follow what we know so far about the shape, size and color of the upcoming 3G iPhone, and while there's always the possibility of knockoff, a Photoshop job, or some other evil plot to mislead us, we're certainly not going to discount these shots entirely in the runup to iPhone's second coming. [Source: iPhone.fr]

[Thanks, Janvier]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3Gapplebreaking newsBreakingNewsiphoneFri, 02 May 2008 09:44:00 EST<![CDATA[Top Six iPhone Accessories]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/05/01/top-six-iphone-accessories/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/01/top-six-iphone-accessories/http://www.switched.com/2008/05/01/top-six-iphone-accessories/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Chances are, you treat your iPhone better than you treat your children. You lavish it with attention, show it off to friends, and rub its underside when its battery is low. It sleeps next to you, and turning it on is your first order of business in the morning. So why not make it happy with some top-notch accessories? We've compiled a list of the best in every category -- and make your iPhone love you as much as you love it. Freak.



Best Case:

incase Slider

We've put quite a few cases on our iPhones, and there's a clear winner: incase's Slider ($34.99). It's ultra slim and made of quality, hardshell plastic -- something not the case with most of its competition (no pun intended), which quite drastically change the silhouette of the phone. On the inside are rubber guardrails, which provide shock absorption, and the bottom cover is removable, making it fit easily in most docks (the device is actually thin enough that it fit in all of our docks as-is). And then, of course, there are the looks: It's shiny, black or white Storm Trooper plastic that just looks awesome. It sounds crazy, but we like the way our iPhone looks more with the case on than without it. (And incase just released a black matte version if a more understated, non-Storm-Trooper look is more up your alley.)

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>featuresiphoneThu, 01 May 2008 14:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Thousands Dance to Their iPod Music In "Silent Rave"]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/21/thousands-dance-to-their-ipod-music-in-silent-rave/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/21/thousands-dance-to-their-ipod-music-in-silent-rave/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/21/thousands-dance-to-their-ipod-music-in-silent-rave/#commentsFiled under: ,


Raves are generally thought to be deafeningly noisy and held in dark, desolate, out-of-the-way places. That's the exact opposite of what happened over the weekend in New York City, where a so-called "silent" rave brought an estimated 1,000 people out onto the streets to dance -- despite there being no music played out loud.

The dancers were all listening to their own tunes, on iPods or the like, and busted moves like apparent madmen to their own beats, with no seeming rhyme or reason. The event was organized flash mob style, with 18-year-old Jonnie Wesson posting an event on Facebook. The event page got thousands and thousands of responses and, though only a small fraction of respondents actually showed, the "rave" still had several hundred folks pulsing away to the silence until well after dark, thoroughly confusing any uninformed passer-by.

It just goes to show that NYC does indeed know how to party -- even without breaking noise regulations. [Source: NY Times]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsfacebookflash mobsFlashMobsiPodmusicMon, 21 Apr 2008 17:19:00 EST<![CDATA[iPod Sleeve Takes fashion to its Logical, Meaty Conclusion]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/19/ipod-sleeve-takes-fashion-to-its-logical-meaty-conclusion/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/19/ipod-sleeve-takes-fashion-to-its-logical-meaty-conclusion/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/19/ipod-sleeve-takes-fashion-to-its-logical-meaty-conclusion/#commentsFiled under:


What's better than having a nice leather or cloth iPod sleeve to show off to your friends? If you're thinking one made of imitation meat -- you're dead right! Apparently, a company in Japan is under the impression that you want to wrap your music player in a grade A lookalike, undoubtedly to the thrill of your vegetarian friends and family. Of course, don't just get one for the shock value -- this thing oozes pure, sophisticated style. If you've got ¥6,800 (or about $66) and dignity to spare, it can be all yours. [Source Solid Alliance via DVICE]
Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>japanSat, 19 Apr 2008 07:45:00 EST<![CDATA[New Chip to Let iPods Hold 500,000 Songs]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/14/the-new-chip-that-will-let-an-ipod-store-500-000-songs/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/14/the-new-chip-that-will-let-an-ipod-store-500-000-songs/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/14/the-new-chip-that-will-let-an-ipod-store-500-000-songs/#commentsFiled under: ,


You're not going blind and that's not a typo.

In the current issue of Science, researchers at IBM unveiled a new type of media storage technology they say could give MP3 players the ability to store around 500,000 songs or 3,500 movies.

O M G.

It's called "racetrack" memory and it involves using the "spin" of an electron to store data. More explicitly, the researchers were able to "store data in columns of magnetic material arranged on the surface of a silicon wafer. The information moves around the columns at high speed, giving the technology its racetrack name."

The technology is similar to flash memory in that it has no moving parts and is unlikely to mechanically malfunction. Unlike flash memory however, it will not wear out after a few thousand uses. Oh yeah, and it's faster. A lot faster.

The biggest, baddest MP3 player on the market right now is the iPod Classic. It has 160-gigabytes (GB) of memory and holds up to 40,000 songs . We know what you're thinking. Weak Sauce. Don't throw away that old POS yet though, since devices boasting "racetrack" memory won't be in stores until around 2018. And yes, we know that's poop.



From Science (via TimesOnline and Engadget)







Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsmemoryMon, 14 Apr 2008 08:41:00 EST<![CDATA[New Nike+ iPod Going Wi-Fi and 3G ]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/11/new-nike-ipod-going-wi-fi-and-3g/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/11/new-nike-ipod-going-wi-fi-and-3g/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/11/new-nike-ipod-going-wi-fi-and-3g/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Stuff.tv is kicking back in Nike's HQ at the moment and claims to have official word about Nike's future plans with Apple. It says that the Nike+ system will be "definitely" extend beyond the iPod nano to support the relatively bulky iPhone and iPod touch. Interestingly, it will leap-frog the proprietary wireless RF link between the shoe module and nano adapter to take advantage of Wi-Fi and eventually 3G.

This, of course, leads to all kinds of speculation with regard to Apple's "lifestyle companion" patent we showed you last month. 3G support would presumably allow for real-time coaching and uploads of your training activity through the Nike Plus website.

So let's see... cellphone (check), iPod (check), Internet device (check), handheld gaming (almost), and now a Nike lifestyle companion (could be).
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3gbreaking newsBreakingNewsgym techGymTechnike ipodNikeIpodFri, 11 Apr 2008 09:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Wireless Power Set for Devices of All Sizes, Maybe iPhone]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/10/wireless-power-set-for-devices-of-all-sizes-maybe-iphone/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/10/wireless-power-set-for-devices-of-all-sizes-maybe-iphone/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/10/wireless-power-set-for-devices-of-all-sizes-maybe-iphone/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Wireless Power Set for Devices of All Sizes, Maybe iPhone

While it may seem as though we live in a wireless age, with gadgets of all shapes and sizes filling our pockets, in actuality we're just visiting. At the end of the day we run home and plug everything in, recharging drained batteries for the next day of exploring out in the juice-less wilderness. That's about to change, as wireless power technologies are approaching prime time. One company on the forefront of the advance thinks that its technology is ready for adoption by the gadget world at large, specifically Apple and its ubiquitous portable devices.

The company is called eCoupled. It produces a wireless power receiver integrated into a component about the size of a quarter, but thinner. The component uses magnetic fields to receive power without wires, charging the battery in the device and juicing it up (similar to how many rechargeable toothbrushes work). Unfortunately, the range is extremely low (nothing like the MIT prototype we reported on last year), basically requiring the device to sit on a custom charging pad that could be built into a countertop.

So, we're not talking about juicing up your iPhone while you wander around your apartment with it in your pocket. But throwing it down on your desk to recharge is a bit more convenient than slotting it into its charging cradle. Add two or three other charging cradles, plus the requisite nest of AC adapter cords, and suddenly the benefits of this sort of technology start to become apparent -- at least for those with an aversion to twisted cable messes.

That said, eCouple's particular implementation of this technology isn't quite there yet and it's still likely to be a year or more before any mainstream gadgets -- like wireless mice that charge themselves through their mouspads -- start showing up.

From AppleInsider


Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eCoupledpowerwirelesswireless powerWirelessPowerThu, 10 Apr 2008 20:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Religious 'Godcasts' Gaining Popularity]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/10/religious-godcasts-gaining-popularity/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/10/religious-godcasts-gaining-popularity/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/10/religious-godcasts-gaining-popularity/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Religious Godcasts Gaining Popularity

While most people use their iPods for music and music alone, downloadable podcasts remain hugely popular. Named for Apple's player, a podcast is some downloadable mini-show usually produced with zero budget and featuring one or more people discussing anything from politics to polygamy (seriously).

Believe it or not that latter group outnumbers the former, as religious discussions and sermons have become the fourth-highest downloaded type of podcasts on the Internet according to podcast clearinghouse Podcast Alley, ahead of politics and sports. Factor in the huge number of lesser-known online distribution channels for divine downloads and it's clear that sermons are becoming nearly as common on iPods as songs.

The reasons are simple: There's always plenty to say about religion and plenty of people interested in listening, but getting the message out in the past has been difficult. Today, anyone with a $5 microphone and an Internet connection can record and post their own sermons, teachings, or analyses for distribution to the masses. The masses available online far outweigh even the biggest mega-churches in the South, and the portable nature of MP3 players of all brands and models means that listeners can tune in whenever and wherever they like.

This ease means spreading the word is simpler than ever, but the concern in the minds of many is that spreading hate, intolerance, and incorrect teachings is just as easy. So, just like everything else on the Internet, be careful what you download.

From USA Today

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iPodpodcastsreligionThu, 10 Apr 2008 15:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Music Industry Claims Throwing Away Free CDs is Illegal]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/10/music-industry-claims-throwing-away-free-cds-is-illegal/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/10/music-industry-claims-throwing-away-free-cds-is-illegal/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/10/music-industry-claims-throwing-away-free-cds-is-illegal/#commentsFiled under: ,

Music Industry Claims Throwing Away Free CDs is IllegalUniversal Music Group has filed a rather ... interesting legal brief in a case against a man accused of re-selling promotional CDs he legally purchased used at a record shop. UMG has claimed that not only was the man breaking the law by selling the albums, even the act of throwing them in the trash would have been committing music piracy.

The industry seems to be hoping to change the way you buy your music, so that if you purchase a CD you're not buying anything but a bit of plastic. The music on there isn't actually yours and, should you get tired of it, you don't have the right to resell it. This is traditionally known as the first-sale doctrine and is the reason why selling used books, CDs, and movies is legal. So is giving away those items -- for now.

Right now UMG's legal filing covers only promotional CDs, those given out for free to DJs and such, and it remains to be seen whether they'll even have any success making this argument. So, it's not the end of the used music store just yet. However, don't forget that when "buying" music files from stores like iTunes you're actually just licensing it, having sworn away your right to resell anything you download. So before you get too angry at UMG remember that you're embracing this sort of licensing elsewhere!

From TechDirt

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>iPodiTunespiracyRIAAUMGUniversalThu, 10 Apr 2008 10:16:00 EST<![CDATA[iTunes Tax Coming for Californians?]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/09/itunes-tax-coming-for-californians/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/09/itunes-tax-coming-for-californians/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/09/itunes-tax-coming-for-californians/#commentsFiled under: , ,

iTunes Tax Coming for Californians?

The blissfully tax-free nature online music shopping may be coming to an end. Buying virtual goods such as MP3s has been pretty much tax-free ever since the iTunes store launched in 2002, even though various money-hungry politicians around the country have been itching to levy Internet specific taxes for just as long. The latest is Democratic Assemblyman Charles Calderon from City of Industry, California, who wants to start applying a sales tax of 8.25 to 8.75 percent on digital downloads in an effort to remove the state's $8 billion budget deficit.

Calderon wants to update a 75-year-old law that indicates taxes must be applied to "tangible goods." Movies and music for download have so far been exempt from this tax, since users can't really touch or feel them. You can, however, see and hear them when played on a computer, which is good enough for Calderon. By also applying the tax to purchases of online pornography, Caleron believes he can increase state tax revenue by $500 million annually (still leaving $7.5 billion to go).

However, don't fret just yet, West Coast downloaders: Love 'em or leave 'em, the Republicans in California have your back. They are opposing this measure and are expected to block it from passing, meaning your $.99 downloads will stay just that -- at least for now.

From Mercury News

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking newsBreakingNewsdownloadiTunesmp3taxWed, 09 Apr 2008 20:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Why You Should Wait to Buy the iPhone (Switched Podcast)]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/08/why-you-should-wait-to-buy-the-iphone-switched-podcast/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/08/why-you-should-wait-to-buy-the-iphone-switched-podcast/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/08/why-you-should-wait-to-buy-the-iphone-switched-podcast/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

The Switched Show Podcast

Touch screens meet keyboards as the latest mobile phones debuted at last week's CTIA convention. Switched.com has a full report on the phones and the rumors -- including when you should plan to buy your next iPhone. Plus: Text Messages from The Grave.

Listen Now (mp3)

Be among the first to hear the 'Switched Show' each week. Subscribe for Free with iTunes. (Or subscribe with your own podcast aggregator by using the Switched Show feed.)

Previous Podcasts:
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ctia2008featuredfeatured storiesFeaturedStoriesfeaturesswitched podcastSwitchedPodcastTue, 08 Apr 2008 13:23:00 EST<![CDATA[More iTunes Fitness Apps and Gadgets Due From Apple]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/07/apple-files-fitness-application-patents/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/07/apple-files-fitness-application-patents/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/07/apple-files-fitness-application-patents/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Patents
Apple seems to think you're all a bunch of fat asses who need to get more exercise. Frankly, we're inclined to agree, you have been looking a little soft around the middle lately.

Apple has already teamed with Nike on iPod and running shoe packages, and unveiled a plan to put iPod docks in treadmills for saving workout data, now a new patent reveals the boys in Cupertino may be working on a full fledged fitness program and accompanying hardware.

Sensors will record heart rate and other physiological information to be loaded into an accompanying iTunes like fitness software platform. You'll be able to set goals, track achievements, even create custom work out routines based on your goals and interests.

The software will "interview" users to gather information such whether you want to lose weight, or just tone up, if you wish to be very active, or only moderately active, and what activities you'll enjoy (such as martial arts, yoga, or marathon running). The app will work with your iPod Touch or iPhone to give you work out plans and collect data while your at the gym.

Check out AppleInsider for all the mock ups of what will likely be known as iFit.

From AppleInsider

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleexpire-images2008-5-7fitnessgym techGymTechifitiphoneipodipod touchIpodTouchNike iPodnike ipodNikeIpodrumorssports techSportsTechMon, 07 Apr 2008 06:33:00 EST<![CDATA[David Beckham Gets Gold-Plated iPod for 100th Game]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/04/03/david-beckham-gets-gold-plated-ipod-for-100th-game/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/03/david-beckham-gets-gold-plated-ipod-for-100th-game/http://www.switched.com/2008/04/03/david-beckham-gets-gold-plated-ipod-for-100th-game/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Gold-plated iPod Touch for Beckham.

When you really want to let someone know you care, what's the gift that says it all? How about an iPod? How about a personally inscribed iPod? How about a gold-plated, personally inscribed iPod?

That's what English soccer great and current Los Angeles Galaxy player David Beckham received from his mates on the English national soccer team after participating in his 100th game with the club following a friendly match with the blokes from the French national team in Paris.

It's a mark of honor, really, to do a hundred of anything, and the gadget hounds at Switched applaud the squad from England for pooling together to get the 32-year-old Beckham this special iPod Touch, valued at 600 British pounds, which comes out to about $1,196 in U.S. hard currency.

From The Unofficial Apple Weblog via Engadget via The Telegraph.


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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleDavid BeckhamDavidBeckhamEnglishgiftGoldiPod TouchIpodTouchSoccerThu, 03 Apr 2008 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Survey Says Teens Don't Care About iPod-Induced Hearing Loss]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/28/survey-says-teans-dont-know-care-what-youre-saying/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/28/survey-says-teans-dont-know-care-what-youre-saying/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/28/survey-says-teans-dont-know-care-what-youre-saying/#commentsFiled under: ,

Survey Says Teans Don't Know, Care What You're Saying

If you're looking for good long-term investment, you might want to think about pumping some of your excess funds into hearing aid companies. Yes, hearing aids -- perhaps not the first thing on your list of future boom economies, but it should be after reading the results of a new study, which shows that teens not only are aware that their iPod listening habits are damaging their hearing, but that they don't care about their hearing.

The study, out of the Netherlands, indicates that teens were receiving and processing warning messages regarding the dangers of loud volume and long earbud listening times, but that for whatever reason they weren't going to suffer from the effects later in life (described as "low personal vulnerability" in survey-speak). No doubt this is the same invincibility that teens have always felt, the same "I'm gonna live forever" mentality that makes 15-year-olds pick up smoking, despite all the well-publicized health risks.

The solution? We've reported on headphones that help to minimize damage done to ears and patents suggesting future iPods might just turn the volume down on their own should they think you've been listening too long. But you can be sure that just as copy protection of digital music downloads hasn't done a lick of good at preventing music piracy, so will any digital nagware fail at preventing kids from finding a way to turn the volume up to 11.

From Engadget

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Applehealthhearing lossHearingLossiPodvolumeFri, 28 Mar 2008 18:14:00 EST<![CDATA[Gadgets Increasingly Ruining Sex Lives Around the World]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/28/in-the-battle-for-supremacy-technology-beats-out-sex/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/28/in-the-battle-for-supremacy-technology-beats-out-sex/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/28/in-the-battle-for-supremacy-technology-beats-out-sex/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

In the Battle for Supremacy It Appears Technology is Beating out Sex

We've published a number of articles about disturbing surveys focused on how technology affects our sex lives. MSNBC contributor Brian Alexander has compiled a boatload of information on the subject from several surveys in one surprising look at technology and our bedroom manners.

In addition to lowering your sperm count and potentially deforming the little guys in your man-batter, cell phones are adding to our technological distractions. Marta Meana, an associate professor of psychology at the University of Nevada, says that cell phones are part of our culture of multi-tasking, which is preventing us from making "quiet time to have sex." And we already know that 37 percent of you are taking your laptops to bed with you.

Even worse, almost 50 percent of British men said they would give up sex for six months in exchange for a free 50-inch plasma television. Not disturbing enough? Only 25 percent would give up chocolate as part of the same deal.

One sure way to put a nail in your sex life's coffin is to put a TV in the bedroom. An Italian study showed that simply putting a television in the bed room cut the amount of sex a couple had in half.

We obviously love our tech and gadgets here at Switched, but we could never choose the Internet or TV over intercourse. What's wrong with you people?

View Poll



From Shiny Shiny and MSNBC

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking+newscell phoneCellPhonesexspermstudysurveytopFri, 28 Mar 2008 15:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony to Offer Subscription-Based Music Download Service]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/26/sony-to-offer-subscription-based-music-download-services/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/26/sony-to-offer-subscription-based-music-download-services/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/26/sony-to-offer-subscription-based-music-download-services/#commentsFiled under: ,



Took them awhile, but Sony BMG is finally selling access to all of its music online. Big boss man Rolf Schmidt-Holtz has been quoted saying that Sony BMG is "working on an one music subscription service" which would cost between €6 to €8 per month (about $9 to $12), and provide access to the entire Sony BMG music catalog.

Schmidt-Holtz goes on to say that customers could own "some songs" even after the subscription was canceled. Oh, and unlike downloads from the Apple store, the music will play on " all digital players, including Apple's iPod."

DRM-free, baby. The service launches later this year.

From Engadget

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>musicmusic downloadsMusicDownloadsonline musicOnlineMusicsonyWed, 26 Mar 2008 09:18:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple Soars to 14% of Computer Sales In February]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/18/apple-soars-to-14-of-computer-sales-in-february/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/18/apple-soars-to-14-of-computer-sales-in-february/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/18/apple-soars-to-14-of-computer-sales-in-february/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Apple Soars to 14% of Computer Sales in February
While the rest of the economy (and the computer industry along with it) flounders, Apple is apparently making out like a bandit. According to industry analyst NPD, Apple's share of computer sales rose from 9 percent to 14 percent in the month of February, while increasing its share of market revenue from 16 percent to 25 percent.

Notebook sales have been climbing in general, but Apple is growing at about three times the rate of the rest of the industry. And, most surprising, Apple's sales of desktop PCs has increased 55% since last February, a time during which the rest of the industry has seen desktop PC sales shrink by 5 percent.

Also surprising is Apple's continued revenue increases, even in the face of sagging iPod sales, which are actually down from the same time last year.

From AppleInsider

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applebusinessimacmacmacbookmacproTue, 18 Mar 2008 14:16:00 EST<![CDATA[Best HDTV Under $500 (Switched Podcast)]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/18/best-tv-under-500-switched-podcast/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/18/best-tv-under-500-switched-podcast/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/18/best-tv-under-500-switched-podcast/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

The Switched Show Podcast

Mere mortals rejoice! HDTVs need not cost four figures. We've got the skinny on the best TVs for under $500. PLUS: A new device that translates your thoughts into speech, and the iPod Nano explodes.

Listen Now (mp3)

Be among the first to hear the 'Switched Show' each week. Subscribe for Free with iTunes. (Or subscribe with your own podcast aggregator by using the Switched Show feed.)

Previous Podcasts:
Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breaking+newspodcastswitched showSwitchedShowtopTue, 18 Mar 2008 08:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple Ordered to Investigate Exploding iPod Nanos]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/12/japan-asks-apple-to-investigate-exploding-ipods/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/12/japan-asks-apple-to-investigate-exploding-ipods/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/12/japan-asks-apple-to-investigate-exploding-ipods/#commentsFiled under: ,

Japan Asks Apple to Investigate Exploding iPods
Exploding gadgets are nothing new, but governments ordering companies to investigate them is. The Japanese government has ordered Apple to investigate a possible defect in the iPod Nano that occasionally causes the diminutive player to burst into flames.

The likely culprit is the media player's lithium-ion battery, which is the cause behind exploding cell phones and the piles of burning laptops. The Japanese government offered a strongly worded warning to Apple for failing to promptly investigate after an incident in January when a charging iPod shot sparks into the air.

However don't expect much from a company investigating itself.

From Engadget

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applebreaking+newsexplodingexploding batteriesExplodingBatteriesipodkiller gadgetsKillerGadgetstopWed, 12 Mar 2008 11:17:00 EST<![CDATA[Sony and Apple Say There's No Beatles On iTunes Deal]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/11/sony-and-apple-say-theres-no-beatles-on-itunes-deal/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/11/sony-and-apple-say-theres-no-beatles-on-itunes-deal/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/11/sony-and-apple-say-theres-no-beatles-on-itunes-deal/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Beatles on iTunes Story DeniedYesterday's breaking news of the Beatles coming to iTunes seems to sadly have been bogus, despite being reported on by major British papers like the 'Telegraph.' The story was attributed to the always ambiguous "unnamed sources" and now it's seeming as though those sources got it wrong, as it's being denied by people on both sides of the story.

Sony/ATV Music Publishing is the group that owns the rights to much of the Beatles catalog and a spokesman from there has called the reports "untrue." For its part Apple, creator and owner of iTunes, has similarly debunked the story, saying: "This is not news nor is it a scoop."

That seems to be the end of that, but neither side denied that such a deal is possible in the future ... so don't stop hoping.

From News.com and Billboard

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BeatlesiTunesTue, 11 Mar 2008 15:01:00 EST<![CDATA[World's First MP3 Player Is 10 Years Old]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/11/the-mp3-player-turns-10-this-month/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/11/the-mp3-player-turns-10-this-month/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/11/the-mp3-player-turns-10-this-month/#commentsFiled under: , ,

The MP3 Player Turns 10 This Month
It's amazing how quickly pieces of technology can become not only an accepted, but also indispensable parts of everyday life. It's hard to believe, but the MP3 player, now more accurately called the Digital Audio Player (DAP) or Personal Media Player (PMP), is 10 years old. Of course, most people just call it the iPod, but that's a whole other story.

It was back in March of 1998 that the world first got a glimpse of the MPMan F10 at the CeBit tech trade show in Hanover, Germany. The prototype garnered enough attention that, by May of that year, the Korean company Saehan Information Systems was mass producing the devices. By summer of 1998, the 32-megabyte (MB) flash device was on sale in the U.S. for $250.

At 3.6 x 2.75 x 6.5-inches, the MPMan was significantly larger than any media player on the market right now, save some of the largest wide screen video players. The Walkman-sized-device could only hold a small handful of songs, and its display was only slightly fancier than your standard digital alarm clock.

By now, of course, Saehan Information Systems and its MPMan are all but forgotten. In fact, many mistakenly point to the Diamond Multimedia Rio PMP300 as the first commercially available MP3 player, but the MPMan beat that CD-player-sized wonder to market by several months.

The bulkiness and limited capabilities of both devices may make them seem quaint when compared to your 32-gigabyte (1000 times the capacity of the original MPMan) iPod Touch, but these archaic devices helped spark a revolution that has completely changed the way we buy and consume music and media.

Gallery: The First MP3 Player

The MPMan F10 from Eiger LabsEiger Labs F10 in BlackF20 the SequelThe originalF20v with 64 Megabytes!


From Register Hardware (via Engadget)

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>anniversarybirthdaybreaking+newsdapipodmp3MPManpmppmp300Riosaehan information systemsSaehanInformationSystemstopzuneTue, 11 Mar 2008 11:05:00 EST<![CDATA[iPod Nano Catches Fire While Owner Snoozes]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/10/ipod-nano-catches-fire-while-owner-snoozes/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/10/ipod-nano-catches-fire-while-owner-snoozes/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/10/ipod-nano-catches-fire-while-owner-snoozes/#commentsFiled under: ,

iPod Nano Catches Fire While Owner Snoozes

One of the more popular accessories out there for the iPod is the alarm clock dock, letting you charge your player while you sleep and wake up in style to any of your digital tunes. However, one owner of an iPod Nano found that he didn't need any such accessory for his gadget to wake him up rather abruptly at 2:00 am -- the fire alarm it kicked off after it burst into flames took care of that.

The alarm jolted the owner out of bed, who found his formerly pocketable player burning on the floor of his bedroom. The fire was extinguished and no further property was destroyed, nor injuries caused, but it's yet another disturbing case of a gadget battery gone bad.

From Engadget

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BatteryExplodingiPodMon, 10 Mar 2008 11:21:00 EST<![CDATA[The Beatles (Finally) Coming to iTunes]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/10/the-beatles-finally-coming-to-itunes/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/10/the-beatles-finally-coming-to-itunes/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/10/the-beatles-finally-coming-to-itunes/#commentsFiled under: ,

Full Beatles Catalog Coming to iTunesEnjoyed by (likely) billions of people worldwide, the Beatles are so popular, they've even had their songs rocketed off into space. Despite the group's global popularity, none of its albums have ever shown up on iTunes, due, unfortunately, to a bit of a legal tiff between Apple, the dudes behind iTunes, and Apple, the group's record label.

Well, all the parties involved -- namely, Paul McCartney and Apple (computer) -- have finally settled their differences and the Beatles invasion of iTunes is set to begin. McCartney indicated last year that he was working on the deal, even saying it would happen in 2008. Indeed it has happened, and it's apparently setting Apple (the computer guys) back $400 million, which will be distributed across all the members of the Fab Four (including the estates of the dearly departed ones), plus Apple (the music recording guys) and, of course, Michael Jackson, who does indeed own the publishing rights to many Beatles songs.

There's been no specific mention of exactly when the albums will show up online, but it shouldn't take long.

From Engadget and UPI




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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleBeatlesbreaking+newsiTunesthe beatlesTheBeatlestopMon, 10 Mar 2008 10:19:00 EST<![CDATA[Games and Apps Coming to iPhone, Including AIM and Spore]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/06/games-and-apps-coming-to-iphone-including-aim-and-spore/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/06/games-and-apps-coming-to-iphone-including-aim-and-spore/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/06/games-and-apps-coming-to-iphone-including-aim-and-spore/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

Piles of Games and Apps Coming to iPhone
Today Apple officially unveiled its anticipated iPhone / iPod Touch SDK (software development kit) that will allow third parties to create applications that take full advantage of those devices' capabilities without all the hacking. A whole host of applications and games will be available via the "App Store" either on your iPod Touch or iPhone or in iTunes when it launches in June as part of the iPhone 2.0 software update.

On the productivity side, Salesforce.com and AOL are working on applications for the devices. Salesforce will be offering an iPhone-specific interface for its customer relationship manager and sales tracking software for the mobile professionals, and AOL will offer a version of its ubiquitous AIM instant messaging application.

But if AIM wasn't enough to excite you, then check out the games. Apple developers threw together a quick demo called 'Touch Fighter,' a fully 3D space fighter game. Your craft is controlled by turning and tilting the handheld and you fire weapons by touching the screen. Sega is also getting in on the accelerometer-controlled gaming with a version of the popular (and quite addictive) 'Super Monkey Ball.'

But most exciting is the announcement of a version of the highly anticipated EA title 'Spore' from god-game guru Will Wright, creator of 'The Sims' and 'Sim City.'

Apps and games will vary in price, set by the developer. The software update to unlock these features will hit in June for free on the iPhone, and for a "nominal charge" on the Touch.

From Engadget

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applegamesiphoneipodipod touchIpodTouchsdkThu, 06 Mar 2008 14:48:00 EST<![CDATA[iPod Docks Coming to a Gym Near You]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/05/ipod-docks-coming-to-a-gym-near-you/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/05/ipod-docks-coming-to-a-gym-near-you/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/05/ipod-docks-coming-to-a-gym-near-you/#commentsFiled under: ,

Apple and Nike Coming to a Gym Near You
Apple, Nike, and several gym equipment manufacturers are working closely to integrate docks for your iPod. The purpose of the docks however is not to play back the latest LCD Soundsystem tracks, or charge your device. Instead they're part of a Nike program for saving workout info to your iPod, tracking goals, and once you get home, uploading this information to a Nike website for tracking workout progress and comparing with other gym rats.

This is the second time Apple and Nike have teamed up on fitness equipment. The companies still sell the Nike + iPod package which includes a pair of running shoes and an accelerometer that sends data to the included iPod Nano.

24-Hour Fitness and Virgin Athletic Health Clubs have already signed on to the project and the ability to plug your iPod Nano into the fitness equipment should be in about 500 gyms by the end of the summer.

From AOL News

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applefitnessgymipodNikesummernewsWed, 05 Mar 2008 11:08:00 EST<![CDATA[University Lets Students Trade Windows Laptops for MacBooks]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/03/03/university-lets-students-trade-windows-laptops-for-macbooks/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/03/university-lets-students-trade-windows-laptops-for-macbooks/http://www.switched.com/2008/03/03/university-lets-students-trade-windows-laptops-for-macbooks/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Oklahoma Christian University Will Let Students Trade in Windows Laptops for MacBooks
Oklahoma Christian University (OC) is the latest in a long line of schools to get on the Apple bandwagon. Handing out new MacBooks to incoming students is hardly unique, but this new exchange program is.

Most of these programs are for new students only, but OC will offer current students an opportunity to trade in their Windows laptops for brand new Apple machines. And if that isn't enough, students will also be offered an iPhone or iPod touch.

OC's Apple hocking programs and campus-wide Wi-Fi put the university at the cutting edge of technology and education, so we're big fans.

From TUAW

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>applecollegeeducationexchangeiphoneipod touchIpodTouchmacmacbookoklahoma christian universityOklahomaChristianUniversityschoolswitchuniversityMon, 03 Mar 2008 13:20:00 EST<![CDATA[University Gives iPhones to Freshmen]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/02/27/texas-university-gives-iphones-and-ipod-touches-to-freshman/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/27/texas-university-gives-iphones-and-ipod-touches-to-freshman/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/27/texas-university-gives-iphones-and-ipod-touches-to-freshman/#commentsFiled under: ,

Texas University Gives iPhones and iPod Touches to FreshmanYou're about to wish you attended ACU (Abilene Christian University) in Texas. Why? The university is about to hand out iPhones and iPod Touches to incoming freshmen. Jealous? We know we are.

Giving electronic gadgets to students is becoming the norm for universities and colleges ever since Duke first experimented with handing iPods to incoming students in 2004. Other schools hand over laptops. Some of us here at Switched were lucky if we got E-mail addresses when we went to school.

But ACU wants to stay ahead of the technological curve and has invested in creating several iPhone and iPod Touch-compatible applications for students including homework reminders, classroom surveys, campus navigators, and meal planners. The pilot program involving this year's incoming freshman will decide the future shape of the program, or if there even is one.

From ArsTechnica

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>acucollegeeducationiphoneipodschooluniversityWed, 27 Feb 2008 17:03:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple Offers Free Recycling On iPods and iPhones -- Without Strings]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/02/25/apple-offers-free-recycling-on-ipods-and-iphones-without-strings/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/25/apple-offers-free-recycling-on-ipods-and-iphones-without-strings/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/25/apple-offers-free-recycling-on-ipods-and-iphones-without-strings/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Apple Offers Free Recycling on iPods and iPhones Without Strings

Apple has been embroiled in a PR battle with Greenpeace over the past year or so. The computer and gadget manufacturer is trying to establish its "green" cred to keep its often eco-minded fans happy. Greenpeace, meanwhile, has been pushing for more, taking the company to task for a number of eco-shortcomings. Now, in a bid for getting greener, Apple is ramping up its recycling programs, offering free and no-strings-attached recycling of any iPod or iPhone.

Apple has been offering free recycling of its products through its stores for quite some time now, launched way back in 2006. However, the recycling was only free if you bought yourself a new gadget to replace the recycled one. Now, iPods and iPhones can be recycled for free without having to buy a new one, but if you want to recycle your old computer (regardless of its brand), you'll still need to upgrade or pay.

Seems Apple isn't quite willing to get into the wholesale beige box recycling business.

From textually.org

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Think the iPod Nano is too small for watching movies? Check out Mark Irwin's iPod Nanoscope, an old, hacked-up 35mm slide magnifier that more than doubles the iPod Nano's viewing screen. The DIY design is complete with curved screen, built-in speakers, a slot for your Nano and a drop-down kickstand for ideal desk viewing.

Sure, it's a little bulkier than the Nano, but it's definitely better on the eyes for video viewing.

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ipodnanovideoWed, 20 Feb 2008 18:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Apple Updates iPod Shuffle]]>http://www.switched.com/2008/02/19/apple-updates-ipod-shuffle/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/19/apple-updates-ipod-shuffle/http://www.switched.com/2008/02/19/apple-updates-ipod-shuffle/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


We were excited when the online Apple Store went down this morning because MacBook Pro and Cinema Display updates seem imminent and rumors have been flying about new iPhone developments. The store came back up announcing updates to the...

iPod Shuffle line.

Apple dropped the price of the 1-gigabyte model to $49, and debuted a brand new 2-gigabyte Shuffle for $69. The 1-gigabyte is available now, and the new 2-gigabyte model will be available later this month. Apple doubled the storage space of the Shuffle, and now offers the choice of pastel colors--silver, blue, green, purple and (PRODUCT) RED.

Will this barrage of sudden new Apple announcements ever cease? We hope not.

From The Unofficial Apple Weblog

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Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleipodshuffleTue, 19 Feb 2008 12:19:00 EST<![CDATA[iPod and iPhone Price Cuts on the Horizon?]]