all things apple i-stuff

New iPhone 3G this June, will I cave?

2009-04-19T09:38:00.000-07:00

Apparently, Apple is rumoured to release a new iPhone this coming June. This would coincide with their usual refresh of their products, giving them a makeover; whether physical or technological.

I'm pretty sure that you all are aware of this picture.

I believe that the shape of the iPhone will remain the same, I mean how can you improve on a design that has worked so well? No complaints here.

While I do welcome the possibility of this matte finish, this particular upgrade alone will not make me spend another $400 of my hard earned money.

Sure, I've also heard that the phone may get a new 3+ megapixel camera but my Panasonic Lumix will do just fine thank you.

Another rumored upgrade, is the fact that it'll run faster on cellular network speeds. I make my calls easily, and my laptop runs just fine.

So, unless it projects 3D holo-images like the ones in Star Wars, I'll hold off for now.

Till next thought.

Apple Releases 3rd Generation Shuffle

2009-03-12T13:10:00.001-07:00

Today, apple releases it's 3rd Generation shuffle. Available in only two colors and in 4GB capacities, these retail for $99 in Canada -- $79 in the US.

Completely redesigned, apple incorporates the brushed aluminum seen in previous generations of the iPods. Thank you apple!! At least it won't suffer surface scratches like the 1st Gen Nano, 3G iPhone, 4th? 5th? gen iPod Classic. Makes me wonder about the clip though, it looks like it could suffer, like unprotected chrome backs of the iPod touches.

I still remain a bit reserved, by the fact that Apple decided to completely omit the controls from the device itself. Now it is located on the earphones, much like the iPhone headset. I've never had that much luck with Apple headsets, they simply break down on me. It seems a bit selfish for Apple to do that, cause most of us like to use 3rd party headsets. There aren't that many 3rd party headset companies, that incorporates controls on the cords themselves.

So, yes... I admit, I'm one of those people. I like my music to sound better, better than the sound that comes out of Apple standard headsets.

They should at least have secondary controls on the unit itself, in case the controls fail on the headset themselves. Well, another example of Apple trying to make people stick with Apple.

Granted. I will admit it's pretty. Very very pretty, and it looks like a stick of gum. It's quite fashionable actually, and it will compliment anybody's style. I guess that's what Apple is going for, style-wise.

Who knows?? Maybe I'll cave.

Sena Ultraslim Pouch for the iPod Nano 4G

2009-03-10T19:52:00.000-07:00

What is there to say about a pouch?? Not much, but today's post takes the Sena Ultraslim Pouch in question. To check out their line of cases, visit the Sena Website

Made out of pebble grain Italian leather, this wee pouch has a price tag of $19. Not to shabby considering the quality of leather used, and it's build is quite respectable.

With it's namesake branded on the front, the inside of the case is soft -- peach-fuzz like. It's simplicity couldn't be more evident. A slim leather pouch, built out of a single piece of leather folded up and sewn together. That's it.

There are suttle differences with this pouch, compared to other "more traditional" pouches. There are corner cutouts, located at the bottom of the pouch. I can understand it, to avoid inevitable bunching at the corners. Still -- it's quite odd.

It will appeal to those who like simplicity, and for those who seek a no-frills case for their ipod. Throw this into a purse, in a backpack, jacket pocket, breast pocket, jeans pocket. It's a pouch, where you can actually leave it -- and forget it.

This will protect your device in earnest. Provided that you don't sit on a bench, with a nail sticking upwards just waiting to poke a hole into your bum.

Grade 4/5

Marware Sportgrip Extreme for the iPod Nano 4G

2009-02-15T16:33:00.000-08:00

This written review has now become my first post in a blog, that I hopefully will remember to update whenever I finish a video review on Apple accessories. Thank you for visiting, and please feel free to visit from time to time.

Ok, now the pleasantries are out of the way, let me introduce to you a really nice silicone case for the iPod nano 4th gen.

The Marware Sportgrip Extreme for the iPod Nano 4G -- $19.99

Marware's sportgrip line has served ipods, past and present. This includes the original iPhone as well. Asides from a price increase, the quality remains the same.

This particular case only includes Marware's signature "Care Package." One that includes a really nice screen wipe (I really like it), a click wheel and a screen protector.

Slim in profile though it does add slight bulk, this particular model is available in only 3 color combos. Sadly there aren't more color combos. Pink/white, Black/red, and White/grey.

Is it a lint catcher? Yes. Though, all you need to do is run your hand across the linty section and --- voila. Lint is gone. It isn't as stretchy as other silicone cases out there, it has some serious substance. Easy in and out of the pocket, its as simple as that.

The easiest way to install this case is through the window, just to let you know by the way.

One glaring problem. I don't understand why they decided to incorporate a slot, near where the usb connector is on the bottom of the case. Why not use what worked in the past, a simple rectangular punch-out would've sufficed. Reason?? Some of use can be rough with out cases, and that slot is waiting to be ripped open by bumbling hands trying to charge their nano at night.

So..

Could it be the perfect case? Yes. I realize that silicone cases aren't for everybody, but listen. It provides really nice drop protection, that will leave your case brand new and fresh looking. Not unlike those polycarbonate cases that'll instantly suffer scars once it kisses pavement. As for the front of the nano, just make sure that you don't drop your nano face down on a really pointy rock, and you'll be set.

Grade : 4.5/5