GeekSugar

iPod Evolution: Then and Now

GeekSugar — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 03:51:10 -0700

Oh Apple, how can I ever quit you? As much as I love my Apple, I can get a little frustrated when it releases a great product, then comes out with an even better one just a few months later. How can I ever keep up?! This fact is especially true when it comes to iPods. We've seen so many iterations of the famous MP3 player hit the shelves, that you may have forgotten where it all started. Well, I'm here to remind you. Check out this retrospective of iPods from then until now in this slideshow.

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My Fave iPod Accessories For Runners

GeekSugar — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 07:03:17 -0700

I just love throwing on my runners and going for a nice long jog. I don't know if it's the wind in my hair or the rush of endorphins, there's just something great about being at one with nature while working up a sweat. Now I've already discussed some great iPhone armbands to use while you're working out, but what about the stuff for your iPod? Gear like earphones, accessories, and stylin' armbands? Here are some of my suggestions for keeping your running experience as enjoyable as possible while rocking out to your favorite tracks.

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6 Sleek iPod Alarm Clocks

GeekSugar — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 11:06:10 -0700

Wakey wakey! There's nothing I despise more than being jerked awake from a deep sleep by a loud alarm. Who invented those anyway? Instead of jumping out of your skin every time that buzzer starts, think about this: you could be waking up to your favorite song every morning. I know - mind blowing. Check out some of my picks for sleek and sane alarm clocks that double as iPod players. At least now you won't break your snooze button.

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UO Portable MP3 Player Mixer Lets You Scratch at Home

PopSugar — Sun, 02 Aug 2009 17:23:32 -0700

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Keep Your iPod Dry This Summer With the Amphibx Armband

PopSugar — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 16:52:23 -0700

$80

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iPod Holster Is a Little Glam, a Little Garish

GeekSugar — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 14:04:02 -0800

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ECOWEEN: Cardboard Box iPod Costume

PRSugar — Thu, 25 Sep 2008 11:38:57 -0700

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More Details About Apple's New Nanos!

kristyrk — Tue, 09 Sep 2008 13:09:25 -0700

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GrooveToons: Surprisingly Normal Alarm Clock For Nano

Angelica — Sun, 27 Apr 2008 10:37:48 -0700

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The Best (and Cheapest) Halloween Costumes in Town

GiggleSugar — Sun, 28 Oct 2007 03:00:00 -0700

Halloween is right around the corner- got a costume in mind? If not, try these on for size. Blend in with every billboard around town and be a walking iPod advertisement. Or, go as the CA driver's license Britney never had. You can get nerdy as a good old-fashioned game of tetris or, even better, fleshify your Facebook (or Teamsugar) homepage. All are simple, cheap, and innovative enough to win you the "best costume" prize at any small party or lame office gathering, so there's no excuse to be yourself this Halloween. Unless, of course, your name is Spencer Pratt- then you're good to go, as is.

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Excuse Me, But Your Baby Just iPood Its Pants

GeekSugar — Wed, 29 Aug 2007 09:00:37 -0700

Either I have a weakness when it comes to babies, or the iPod + baby combo is just too much cuteness for a woman to handle because I when I saw these iPood Baby Creepers on Neatorama, I had the same ooowing and awwing reaction I got from the precious iPod scroll wheel tee's. These 100 percent combed cotton jumpers only cost $15, and if you look closely you'll notice the baby silhouette is holding an iPod - and even rocking out! Click on the pics below for more ooowing and awwing action!

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How To Replace Your iPod's Battery

GeekSugar — Tue, 14 Aug 2007 10:00:58 -0700

PartySugar's slightly robust first generation iPod has been sitting at geeksugar central for longer than we want to admit. (We joke with the "robust" comment - Party gets major vintage geek points for owning and still using the first gen iPod!) Despite our fear of blood, we finally decided to perform the surgery. You'll be pleased to know it went well.

We followed a combination of the Wired's How To Replace Your iPod Battery, the directions on the FastMac Premium iPod Battery kit and inherent geek skills. The kit, which costs $18-$25 depending on your iPod generation, includes two plastic screwdrivers, the battery and instructions. It will save you the $66 you'd have to send Apple if your iPod is out of warranty. The entire process shouldn't take more than 10 minutes.

For additional images and step by step instructions for changing your battery, read more

Begin by laying your iPod on its back on a soft work surface.
Using a nylon screwdriver tool, gently insert the pointed end between the battery and the end of the metal back casing and the acrylic front of the iPod, at the top of the unit.
Using a gentle prying motion, work the nylon tool down the length of the iPod toward the bottom. The concealed clips will release as you slide the tool down the iPod's back shell.
Work the nylon tool in from the nylon tool in from the bottom of the unit once you have the left side released. There are two clips on the bottom to unlock. Be careful to not put pressure on the back of the case and accidentally close the top left side where you began the process.
Once the bottom shell is free, it will easily come off of the iPod. Set it aside.
Gently work the battery from the iPod, there are two black adhesive strips on the top and bottom of the battery to release. If they stick to the battery, simply peel them off and reapply them to the top of the hard drive. It may take some force - use gentle force.
Disconnect the battery from under the top adhesive strip, from its mounting point on the logic board.
Insert the replacement high-capacity battery onto the logic board socket. it will only plug in one direction. Then, place the battery back onto the adhesive strips, centering its position on the iPod as shown. Tuck the wires in neatly to the top of the batter, making sure they do not protrude from the inside of the case.
Slide the iPod back cover onto the front shell and gently press toward the front to snap it back on.
Your iPod is now ready to be charged and used!

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Hippie Chic: Toteplus iPod Case for iPod

GeekSugar — Mon, 13 Aug 2007 03:00:20 -0700

When it comes to fashion, I shy away from bold prints, but I quite like this Pine case from Tote Plus. The exterior of the case is a paisley patterned fabric framed by genuine leather. The flap has a wide opening to permit access to the top of the iPod and features a magnetic closure, which I much prefer to harder plastic closures that can be incredibly hard to pry off your pod. I was slightly bummed by the fact that the case doesn't allow you access to your click wheel, but then realized I never use my iPod when it's in a case anyway. Tote Plus sells the model to fit 30, 60 and 80 GB iPods and has some other colorful cases (with clickwheel openings) as well as cases for RAZRs.

To check out additional images of the case, read more

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Get in Gear: iSkin Duo

FitSugar — Mon, 06 Aug 2007 15:45:00 -0700

If you've spent a tiny fortune on your iPod Nano, you want to get a case that will really protect it from getting damaged or broken while working out. When I run, mine used to always fall out of my pocket, but I'm totally covered with the iSkin Duo.

The iSkin Duo has 2 layers (hence the name) which equals twice as much protection. The inner layer is made of colored silicone, specially treated to resist dust and lint. I love that it has integrated click wheel protection. It is shock absorbing (for when you accidentally drop it a million times), and protects against moisture (like sweat or rain) and normal wear and tear.

The outer layer is called the VISOR Face Protector. It's made of hard resin and protects the face and screen of your iPod Nano. There is a removable rotary beltclip included, so you can clip it to your pocket or waistband when you exercise.

It protects against both impact and scratching, but is still compatible with Apple's Universal Dock and other similar docking devices. Have I peaked your interest? You can get one for $29.99 directly from the iSkin website.

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New Belkin iPod Cases: Yes, People Still Have iPods

GeekSugar — Thu, 12 Jul 2007 05:00:29 -0700

Whoever said the release of the iPhone would make people forget about the iPod was wrong! Belkin is about to release a new line of cases for the iPod, iPod nano, and iPod shuffle that hope to "dress up your iPod while protecting it from everyday scratches and scuffs."

The line is colorful and obviously aimed at female consumers. The iPod nano "Charm” and “Style” cases (pictured in pink and light blue) will cost $24.99 and feature heart or line-art pattern laser-cut into high-end leather as well as a wristlet for easy carrying and an interior mirror that doubles as a picture frame. The cases will be available this August.

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Safe Tunes for Your Bike: iH8B

FitSugar — Thu, 28 Jun 2007 11:00:00 -0700

I like riding my bike and I like listening to music, but have never really felt comfortable combining the two. I rely on my ears as well as my eyes to stay aware of my surroundings and cranking up my iPod while biking just doesn't seem like a good idea.

The new Bike to Beach Bicycle Speaker for iPod® (iH8B), made by iHome is a creative solution to this musical dilemma.

Here's how it works. You place your iPod in the impact resistant, polycarbonate case and mount it to the lower crossbar of your bike. It has little speakers on the ends of it so you don't even need to wear headphones - that way you can hear your music and also hear what's going on around you. Then you mount the wireless remote control to your handlebars. Now you can easily skip past Gwen Stephani's "Hollaback Girl" when you're really in the mood for Kelly Clarkson's Never Again without having to futz with your iPod. Plus it's water and impact resistant - two very necessary features when it comes to your bike.

These speakers for your bike only cost $99, but they're not quite ready to be shipped yet. You can order one straight from iHome though, and be the first on your bike path to have one.

Want to see more pictures then read more

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Get Your Hands On A Vintage Gameboy iPod Case

GeekSugar — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 09:00:02 -0700

Remember our Geek of the Week Ryan Johns, who managed to fit his entire iPod into a vintage Gameboy case? Well, Etsey user cavco must have been inspired, or at least running on the same frequency when he created his Vintage Gameboy iPod case, which allows you all the joy of putting your iPod in a Gameboy without it having to be there permanently.

"It controls the iPod through the buttons on the front of the Gameboy while keeping the iPod safe inside," says cavco. "The front buttons are wired into a remote control so you can change the song and the volume with the case screwed closed."

The case only costs $30, which is to par with most regular iPod cases, but far more geek chic. Would you buy it?

For additional images of the iPod Gameboy case,
read more

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Hide Your iPod/MP3 In A Generic Mint Tin

GeekSugar — Mon, 28 May 2007 11:00:43 -0700

Do you find yourself suffering physical and mental anguish when your iPod isn't within plain view? Do you experience an increased heart rate and blood pressure when you realize you've left your iPod at home? And, lastly, do you hide your MP3 player from the prying eyes of coworkers, friends and family?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may want to take a move from knowing addicts and hide your iPod or MP3 player in a generic tin so no one will be the wiser. It's for your own good. I promise.

To check additional pictures of the iPod tins, read more

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AirDock For iPod - For Your Computer, Stereo or TV

GeekSugar — Fri, 11 May 2007 08:00:29 -0700

If you're not the type to just use a cable to connect your iPod to your speakers or TV, consider the AirDock for iPod, a nifty little device that can control, charge and play your iPod through your TV, stereo or computer.

Initially, I thought it was just another "not so necessary" gadget, but I realized the fact that it is controlled by a nifty remote allows full listening control. You won't have to get up from dinner, the couch or bed to push the click wheel, because you can just click away on the remote. Also, the fact that the dock charges your iPod means you don't have to worry about hooking it up to your computer before getting up to work out in the morning.

For the rest of my review and additional images of the AirDock connected to the TV, read more

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Computer Use: You connect the AirDock to your computer's USB port. Plug in your iPod to recharge its battery while you sync with iTunes.

TV/Stereo Use: You connect AirDock to your TV or stereo using the Griffin HomeConnect cable - it comes with the dock. You can sit back and enjoy your music, photos and videos. They say the remote works through walls, but I haven't tried it yet.

Griffin is selling the AirDock for $69.99.

Mobile Survival Kit - Don't Leave Home Without It

GeekSugar — Thu, 10 May 2007 09:30:00 -0700

If all goes well, I should be going on a weekend sailing adventure with a few of my friends in June, which is an amazing, sun-soaked experience the group looks forward to all year. It's heaven save for one thing - there are no electrical outlets so we are limited to charging our cell phones, computers and gizmos when we're docked at night. This year I'm coming prepared. I was planning on relying on the TuneJuice2, an iPod charger that runs off AA batteries and can provide up to 14 hours of additional audio play, but I found the Proporta Mobile Survival Kit, which will charge all my gadgets.

The kit is essentially a little USB rechargeable battery that plugs into any USB powered mobile device (phone, PDA, GPS, iPod, digital camera, etc.) and gives it that recharge juice it needs to keep working. In fact, the makers claim a fully charged Proporta Mobile Device Charger should be able to charge most mobile devices between three and five times from completely empty.

Apparently, "hard to charge devices," like the iPod 5G will recharge and play for up to three times longer when connected to the charger. A plus is the fact that the kit comes with adapters for Nokia and Sony Ericsson phones, and can be connected to UK, European, Australian and US region adapters (not included). This means so long as the charger has power (it is charged via USB on your computer), so will all the rest of your gadgets. The kit costs 44.95 and it's worth every penny.

To check out more pictures of the kit in action, read more

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Note: The Proporta USB Mobile Device charger is not compatible with the Microsoft Zune.

Chic and Feminine iPod Decals

GeekSugar — Fri, 04 May 2007 07:00:36 -0700

The Lamb Lamb iPod decals offer something you don't usually see in the tech world: Simple, feminine patterns that play to a person's sensitive and sweet side without being too syrupy, sweet or bright pink.

The style seems inspired by Gwen Stefani's L.A.M.B line meets French chic, and while I am utterly in love with the designs, I am crippled by my inability to understand the website. This one might just be for ohhhss, awwwsss and inspiration.

Check out what the designer has been doing on her blog.

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Transform Your iPod Into A Translator With iSpeak

GeekSugar — Tue, 17 Apr 2007 13:07:12 -0700

For all the traveling I do, this should be a product that I never leave home without. Who knew that your iPod can be used as a portable translator? With McGraw-Hill's iSpeak you can download 1,500 audio phrases in French, German, Spanish or French right into your iPod! All you have to do is go to 'artist' and choose the theme you want. Then go to "album" and select the topic within the theme. From there you just select the phrase you want to hear and you will not only hear it but you will see it on your iPod screen! These translating travel buddies are only $13 and are also compatible with the Zune and other mp3 players. If you want other languages, expect Chinese, Japanese and Portuguese editions to launch this summer. Now if only I would have had the Spanish iSpeak and my iPod on me when I got lost in Barcelona!

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Let Your iPod Take A Nap In The 'Load Thing'

GeekSugar — Fri, 13 Apr 2007 06:09:19 -0700

Does your iPod ever get a little sleepy in the afternoon? Do you have to give it snacks and put it down for a nice 4 pm nap? Well, now the iPod "Load Thing" can protect your musical child while it catches up on his or her zzzzzs.

No really, I'm serious. This charming iPod accessory is unlike most in that it does, as Crave so aptly points out, absolutely nothing. It's only $13, which isn't outrageous, but of course the whole "no function" bit kind of puts it at a disadvantage. Nice form though. Two thumbs up to that. For a gallery of fun images, read more

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iPod Saves Soldier's Life

GeekSugar — Fri, 06 Apr 2007 16:03:05 -0700

This week Flickr user tikigod posted photos of an iPod that reportedly saved the life of a soldier when he was shot with an AK-47. The photo belonged to tikigod's friend Danny, who said:

Kevin Garrad (3rd Infantry Division) was on a street patrol in Iraq (Tikrit I believe) and as he rounded the corner of a building an armed (AK-47) insurgent came from the other side.

The two of them were within just a few feet of each other when they opened fire. The insurgent was killed and Kevin was hit in the left chest where his IPod was in his jacket pocket. It slowed the bullet down enough that it did not completely penetrate his body armor. Fortunately, Kevin suffered no wound.

Tikigod later got an e-mail from Apple, saying they were working to get Garrad a new iPod.

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