It was inevitable. The iPod, which captured the imagination of so many people around the world, has now evolved into what is called a revolution in after market products. Apple has its fair share of accessories, but entrepreneurs world wide are taking advantage of this trusty little MP3 player. The quality and value of the iPod can better be realized by these new add-ons and accessories. Here, we will discuss some of the after market goodies available for the iPod.
Not Just An MP3 Player
Who would think that something as small as the iPod could become such a big part of people's lives? There are so many features available for iPod, that it is almost indispensable for many users. As of October of last year, you can access the iPod to watch video and Belkin has taken advantage of that fact. Belkin produces a system that allows consumers to show content from a video iPod on screens already installed on seatbacks in cars and SUVs. You plug the iPod docking station into the cigarette lighter, and cords running from the charger plug into the TV screens. Belkin has also launched products for the iPod and iPod Nano that allow users to charge and listen to iPods in their cars. The product comes with FM transmitters that allow users to access radio station frequencies on their iPod screens.
Adding Quality Sound Systems
There is no end to the choices for adding sound systems to the iPod. Rain makes a product called iWoofer, which features a docking station for the iPod that adds downfiring subwoofers and the smallest iPod speakers with radio available. Highly visual, it allows the user to easily view high-quality video. Bose, the famous speaker manufacturer, came out with the Bose SoundDock that gives the iPod user the great sound expected from Bose. It charges the iPod while running, and includes a remote, so that you can access iPod from any part of the room. In October, Logitech is releasing the Wireless Music System for iPod. This system is a complete, two-piece, plug-and-play application. A music transmitter connects to the standard iPod headphone port and a music receiver plugs into a home stereo receiver or multimedia speakers through an RCA port or a 3.5 mm jack.
Cases, Carriers and Covers
A-1 Quality Products, which makes metal cases, sell special cases for iPod under the names "iKeychain" and "iArmor" for iPod Shuffles, Nano and minis. The story goes that Joe Davis, a metal machinist, spent a lazy afternoon making a special case for his iPod Shuffle. Friends liked it so well that he began making more. Now, A-1 Quality Products manufactures these fine cases for the public. In a recent booth event at MacWorld, Davis showed a video of a truck backing over his iPod, with no subsequent damage to the unit. The case features a smart magnetic design that permits easy opening and closing without latches, snaps, or screws. You slip the iPod in, and magnets hold it securely closed. Two tabs allow easy access. The only problem with the case is the exposure of the wheel and screen. At $39.95 and up, it is a good bargain.
Many designer cases are available for the iPod. The Otterbox is noteworthy because it is waterproof and great for biking, hiking, working out, or other activities. For the fashionista, carrying cases by Prada, Juicy Couture and Marc Jacobs are available. Expect to pay from $175 to $215 for fashionable designer cases.
In Your Ride
Digital Lifestyle Outfitters' TransPod makes transporting your iPod easy. This high-quality FM transmitter and solid state car charger make the unit compatible with just about every make and model of car. Apple is not interested in manufacturing the aftermarket car transportation systems, but works with car manufacturers to ensure that the iPod is compatible with their systems. Newer cars have a CD changer output jack on the car’s stereo that makes attaching the iPod a snap.
There are many aftermarket accessories available for the iPod.. The industry has raked in a staggering $850 million. This figure doesn’t even include gear sold over the Internet. Think the iPod is low brow? Mercedes-Benz was the first automaker in 2005 that provided full iPod music navigation. Drivers can access their entire music collection through the Mercedes-Benz audio system. Mercedes-Benz’s adoption of iPod makes it clear that the product has "made the grade."
We have tons more information on iPod care, troubleshooting, and accessories!
. Questions of a Do It Yourself nature should be submitted to our "