The shuffle to accessorize Apple Computer's smallest iPod is on.
Add-on maker XtremeMac on Friday debuted more than a dozen accessories for the iPod Shuffle, ranging from auto accessories like a car charger and an FM transmitter to aesthetic enhancements such as Bumperz--colored silicon bands that go around the flash music player.
After seeing Apple CEO Steve Jobs introduce the iPod Shuffle at Macworld in January, XtremeMac CEO Gary Bart saw a hit in the making and quickly headed off to China to ready a slew of add-ons.
"The development of such an extensive line of new iPod Shuffle accessories just six weeks after its launch at Macworld shows our determination and commitment to being the iPod accessory leader," Bart said in a statement.
Among other XtremeMac products are clips and hooks to hold the Shuffle, and SportWrap, a moisture-resistant armband. The accessories, which range in price from $13 to $50, will all be available in March, the company said.
Another accessory maker has seized on an opportunity created earlier this week, when Apple announced that it will no longer include a FireWire cord with its iPod Mini and iPod Photo devices. Griffin Technology announced plans Thursday for the Dock400--a new, 4-foot FireWire cord that will sell for $18, a buck less than Apple charges for its cord.
The iPod accessory market is already red-hot, as retailers that don't even carry the player rush to stock add-ons to cash in on the craze. Bart noted that the Shuffle represents an even broader opportunity, as the player--which sells for as little as $99--appeals to the masses.
"The iPod Shuffle has extended the reach of the iPod into nearly every demographic," Bart said.
But while some are looking to add on to the iPod, others are ready to take it apart. Market research firm IDC published a report this week on its experience taking apart the player. The disassembly confirmed what had been widely speculated--that the player is powered by a controller chip from semiconductor maker SigmaTel.
Join the conversation
Comment replyThe posting of advertisements, profanity, or personal attacks is prohibited. Click here to review our Terms of Use.
Google creates an animated doodle that features a boy, a girl, Google's search engine, and a jump rope. But might there be darker, more analytical, more troubling interpretations to this tale?
The Silicon Valley online payments startup grew by 1,000 percent last year and is hopeful it can repeat that level of growth this year. To do that, it's had to move away from its early friends-and-family roots and embrace small businesses.
Chamtech's spray-on antenna uses a nano material to provide a low-power boost to antenna range. The wireless-in-a-can product may some day bring an end to unsightly cell towers.
EnerG2 opens a plant to make an engineered carbon that will improve performance of energy storage devices and make storage for start-stop hybrid cars less expensive.
Join the conversation