An upcoming alternative firmware for the iPod called Rockbox allows users to replace their iPod's firmware (operating system) with a custom one. Rockbox offers many advanced features for audiophiles... including much more adjustments and customization. Since the code is open, users are encouraged to create their own themes as the one pictured here.

It's still in development, and you do have to give up some of niceties that Apple offers - such as iTunes syncing and Protected AAC (iTunes Music Store) song playback. But, hey, you get OGG support...

Bella USA has launched a new product called "Catapult" which allows you to capture video footage from DV or HDV video cameras directly to your iPod.

- Time Lapse Recording
- Remote Trigger - including motion detection
- Pre and Post Record
- AC or Battery Power (3 hours)
- Works with DV and HDV cameras with FireWire
- under $300

Not due until the second half of 2006.

Looks like Samsung is going to be the beneficiary of PortalPlayer's announcement that their media chip was not chosen by Apple for their next generation flash-based iPods.

"An executive from Samsung said the company won the MP3 media processor business for Apple's next-generation iPods."

Samsung has reportedly been working on the design for some time with Apple. The chip is a 32-bit processor based on ARM technology.

Samsung also supplies much of the Flash RAM for Apple's iPods. PortalPlayer's stock took a nosedive following last week's news.

As followup to the counterfeit iPod story from the other day, it appears that these fake iPods are actually very popular items. TaipeiTimes reports that the iPod nano knockoffs are flying off the shelves making it dificult to keep up the demand.

This particular brand of fake is called the "Nano Apple" and is made in China and marketed in Taiwan. They come in 512MB, 1GB and 2GB sizes, are 1/2 the price of Apple's iPod and also support Video.

According to the report, the company provides customer support/service for the units after they are sold.

"We provide after-sales service and irresistible functions that a real iPod nano is not able to offer. It is a simply a matter of supply and demand"

The Altec Lansing inMotion iM7 is a speaker system for the Apple iPod that allows you to dock your iPod and enjoy your songs in any room in the house. Altec Lansing's inMotion iM7 features an iPod cradle, both AC and Battery Power, Remote Control and Video Output for video-capable iPods.

Forum user dietcokevanilla spent some time looking at various iPod speaker systems and finally settled on the inMotion iM7 and is happy with her decision. In summary:

Pros:
Sleek design, which encases the iPod in its own little cradle.
Excellent sound-quality, even at high volume.
Remote control included - and a slot to keep it safe.

Cons:
A little large for regular transportation compared to some of the other speaker systems, but still "portable". (A carry bag is available to purchase separately.)

Read on for detailed photos and a brief review...

T3 reports that Apple will be launching new 8GB and 10GB iPod Nanos this summer -- at least, that's what Piper Jaffary analyst Gene Munster is claiming.

Munster thinks the full-fledge video iPod won't be coming for some time, so Apple needs something to keep customers interested in the meanwhile.

Apple's nano comes in 1GB, 2GB and 4GB sizes for now.

PortalPlayer has been a major component supplier for the Apple iPod from the start. The company, however, has had a major setback today when it was announced that Apple will be switching from PortalPlayer to another supplier for chips in some of its iPod product line. PortalPlayers next media processor chip will not be used in Apple's new mid-range and high-end flash-based iPods.

The company does believe "that the [current chip] will continue to be used in other members of the iPod family. "

PortalPlayer generates about 90% of their sales from Apple's iPod alone.

Apple released their 2nd Quarter 2006 Financial Results.

The iPod continues to sell well and sold over 8.5 million iPods during this quarter. This is up 61% from the same quarter last year. Apple's profits rose 41% this quarter with net income up to $410 million or 47 cents a share, from $290 million, or 34 cents, a year earlier.

Remember... Apple sold a record 14 million iPods during the holiday quarter for 2005. Apple's been doing so well in recent years, they will be opening a 50-acre campus near its current headquarters. The new campus will take three or four years to complete.

AVA Showcase recently introduced a stylish chrome case called the nano Element. The case is designed for all versions of the iPod nano and costs $24.99.

Features include:

- Hardshell Case
- Screen Protector
- Clickwheel Film
- Integrated On/Off switch
- Lanyard

The chrome case is lined to prevent scratches to your nano and comes in two colors (Gold and Chrome). An opening in the bottom gives you full access to your connectors.

Apple's iPod has become so popular that counterfeiters are making their own versions and passing them off as authentic. At first glance, the fake iPods appear very real. Apple is warning its resellers of the existence of these fake iPods and how to identify them.

The iLuv i603 offers 42 hours of extended playing time for your 30GB 5G iPod. The extended battery is enclosed along with your iPod in a silicon sleeve.

- Built-in high-capacity rechargeable lithium polymer battery extends the playback time of iPod with video 30GB up to 42 hours for i603
- iLuv skins provide your iPod with video 30GB with maximum protection against scratches

The product retails for $84.95.

Scosche Industries recently announced the introduction of a new Freestyle line of RF remotes designed specifically for the 5G iPod and iPod nano.

The new remotes offer 150-feet range and lets you control the expected play/pause, on/off, volume, track and rewind/ffwd. The RF units connect through the dock-connector on the bottom of the iPods and attempt to provide a relatively seamless look. The remote unit draws power from the iPod and does not require another power source. The remotes will be available for $69.95.

Audioengine is now shipping their Audioengine 5 speaker system for the iPod.

Audioengine is a full speaker system in a bookshelf-sized package. It has its own internal power amplifier and subwoofer components. The top of the unit has a built-in ports to connect your iPod Universal Dock connector. This allows you to charge your iPod while playing music through the speaker system.

The speakers cost $349 per pair, which places them right in line with Apple's iPod Hi-Fi system. Reviews of the new unit seem favorable: "If, based on sound quality alone, I had to choose between the iPod Hi-Fi and these speakers, I'd opt for the Audioengine 5s for their more-balanced sound and their ability to be separated. "

This week, iStyles launched their iStyle Silicone cases for the 5th generation iPod. The cases are available in eight different colors, are smooth to the touch and do not attracct dust or become "sticky".

The Silicone cases retail for $12 each and are available for both 30GB and 60GB sizes.