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 November 23, 2005Online Service Offers Web-Based OPML ManagementOPMLManager is an online service that lets users create and edit OPML files through a web interface. OPML is an XML-based format that allows sharing of outline-structured information. The OPML file can be used as part of an online directory, such as the iPodder directory, as a subscription list, a reading list, for use at taskable.com and other situtations where OPML would be appropriate. OPML Manager displays OPML files as a folder tree that can be edited with a click of a mouse. The Manager lets users edit, add and delete nodes and links. Web dialog boxes guide user data input:
An import option is available, so the site can work with existing OPML files. The site also provides hosting for OPML files and statistics for activity. Users can export their OPML and use it with any application, site or host. Source: OPMLManager.com Posted by jlewin at 06:09 AM | Comments (0) November 22, 2005New Service Promises Podcast Access for 50 Million Cell Phone Users
Vemail VoiceEmail runs on the mobile phones of 16 operators. Vemail VoiceEmail lets users not only retrieve podcasts over the air with their mobile phones, but they can speak replies that are delivered directly to the podcast host. Vemail VoiceEmail also enables users to read email and speak replies. With Vemail VoiceEmail, users can select from a variety of featured podcasts at the VoiceGenesis web site, or enter a link to any publicly available podcast they want. The next time they check email with Vemail VoiceEmail on their mobile phone, the podcast will appear in their inbox. They can even speak a reply that the podcast host can include in later podcasts. "We are pleased to open up a new podcast delivery channel that makes podcasts available to so many more people," said Mark Marriott, CEO of Voice Genesis. "In many ways Vemail VoiceEmail represents an evolutionary jump in podcasting. Not only is a portable media player not required, but the podcast need never be downloaded to a PC. Even more significant, users cannot only retrieve podcasts, they can also speak replies that are sent directly to the podcast host. Vemail VoiceEmail service costs about $5/month. Users can enjoy unlimited podcasts plus the ability to read email and speak replies (airtime may be required for use). Source: Voice Genesis Posted by jlewin at 06:10 PM | Comments (0) iPod Music Store Now Top 10 Music Retailer
“The ongoing and growing popularity of Apple’s iTunes Music Store now positions the company as a leading music retailer, and continues to legitimize legal digital music retailing,” said Russ Crupnick, music and movies industry analyst for The NPD Group. “With the growing interest in digital music, forecasts of more iPod demand this holiday, plus the stocking-stuffer appeal of iTunes gift cards, we can expect Apple to increase its share even more by year’s end.” Q3 Top 10 Music Retailers
NPD used an equivalency of 12 tracks per album in order to create a comparison between physical CDs and individual tracks, or singles. Source: NPD Posted by jlewin at 05:58 PM | Comments (0) November 21, 2005Art Museum Uses Podcasts to Deliver Audio-Visual Tour Guide
In the first edition, curators, conservators and researchers share their stories about art in the Paintings Gallery. Listeners can view paintings by Edward Burne-Jones, Brouwer, Botticelli and others while listening to the podcast. Victoria and Albert Museum Podcast Details Posted by jlewin at 11:12 PM | Comments (0) SolidSpace Unveils Podcast Hosting ServicesSolidSpace, a web hosting provider, has announced the immediate availability of a new podcast hosting service for radio stations throughout the country. SolidSpace debuted its podcasting capability in a partnership with WSMW-FM in Greensboro, N.C., an adult contemporary music station owned by radio network giant Entercom Communications Corp. WSMW has been posting podcasts from its popular weekday morning drive-time program "The Wicker Show" since late summer. It posts as many as four to five segments a day. The segments range in time from under a minute to 10 minutes. Topics include comic parodies by host Jeff Wicker, interaction with listeners and man-on-the-street stunts. WSMW staff packages up the content and forwards it through links to SolidSpace, which hosts the content in its state-of-the-art data center in Winston-Salem, N.C. "The software-as-a-service format isn't just the wave of the future - it's here, and podcast hosting is just a natural extension of the benefits thousands of other corporate users are leveraging worldwide," said Jim Capps, president of SolidSpace. "Our podcast hosting service gives radio stations the ability to do what they do best - create content that drives listenership and advertising dollars - and leaves the back-end processing to us." "Podcasting was just another opportunity for us to interact with our audience," said WSMW Program Director Michael Bryan. "If they missed something unusual that happened in the show, they can go back and check it out on our Web site. Some other radio stations run the best snippets of the week on the weekend, but on our site listeners don't have to wait that long. It's an on-demand world, and we're giving them what they're demanding." Bryan said the SolidSpace service's ease of use enabled WSMW staff to set up the podcast links in a matter of hours. Source: SolidSpace Posted by jlewin at 11:06 PM | Comments (0) PhoneValet Podcast Bundle Updated
The upgrade to BIAS Peak Express 5 audio filtering and editing software adds audio recording capabilities, support for opening 3GPP files (default audio recording format for PhoneValet), auto-latency compensation (automatically corrects for audio plug-in latency during rendering), support for Unicode and file names longer than 32 characters, multi-document recording (allows recording past the 2 GB AIFF limit), ultra-accurate waveform display algorithm, advanced new sample rate conversion algorithm, and Load/Save/Bypass buttons for AU plug-ins, among other enhancements. PhoneValet Podcast bundle also includes VST edition of the highly acclaimed SoundSoap 2, also from BIAS. SoundSoap 2 is the most affordable and easiest to use high quality audio noise reduction and restoration software available for Mac OS X. The combination of Peak Express 5 and SoundSoap 2 provides an excellent toolset for recording, editing, cleaning, and processing audio for Podcasts and other delivery formats. "Winning a major industry award for the first edition of our PhoneValet Podcast bundle validates our commitment to partnering with world class companies," according to Kevin Ford, president of Parliant. "BIAS, the market leader in stereo audio recording, editing, processing, and mastering software for Mac OS X, enables us to bring the best, yet easiest-to-use audio editing and production facility for our podcasting customers for crystal clear interview results". The upgrade will be made available free to existing users. New shipments of PhoneValet Podcast bundle will continue at the current price of $249.95 which includes PhoneValet 3.0 hardware and software. Existing PhoneValet 3.0 customers can still upgrade to PhoneValet Podcast for $74.95. "Listeners expect broadcast-quality telephone voice conversations in today's podcasting environment. Our customers can now meet that expectation using the same platform as their computer telephony solution," said Mr. Ford. "This bundle represents tremendous value." Source: Parliant Posted by jlewin at 10:58 PM | Comments (0) HiFi-Link Connects iPods with Stereos and TVsXitel has introduced the HiFi-Link for iPod, a docking station that lets users connect iPods to home stereos and TVs. The docking station charges the iPod, while providing gold-plated line-level RCA audio and composite video outputs. The dock also includes a remote for controlling an iPod from as far as fifty feet away.
Features:
"Now you can enjoy all of your iPod content on your home entertainment system -- played through more powerful stereo speakers or viewed from a large-screen living room TV," said Barrie Davis, president of Xitel. "HiFi-Link allows iPods to seamlessly integrate with anything from a top-of-the-line surround-sound system through to a simple boombox or regular TV." Contents:
The HiFi-Link is expected to retail for about $100. Source: Xitel Posted by jlewin at 10:42 PM | Comments (0) Why Do Japanese Think Sony MP3 Players are Lame?Japan Today is calling Apple's success in Japan "a low point for Sony and for the Japanese consumer electronics industry in general." iPods account for about 60% of the entire market for portable music players, and Apple now outsells sony for music players in its home. Why are Japanese turning to Apple? According to the site, it's because Sony's offering are "lame". Sony is trying to fight back, with new MP3 Walkmans priced close to the Apple models, such as 29,000 yen for a 6GB unit, and they've cut the pricing of Mora online songs by 15% recently. However, this is a lame-ass effort, given that the iPod is sexier, smaller, and cheaper, and since Mora only has a catalog of 200,000 tunes, users are flocking to the iTunes site instead. Even Sony's own recording artists are complaining about Sony withholding its catalog from Apple Japan, and people like Motoharu Sano are signing up directly with Apple. Source: Japan Today Posted by jlewin at 10:28 PM | Comments (0) Radio Shack to Carry Wireless Motorolla Skype Phones
The Calling Kit lets Skype users wirelessly make free, unlimited voice calls over the Internet. The Kits will be vailable at 3,500 RadioShack stores nationwide. Comprised of a Motorola H500 Bluetooth Headset and PC850 PC Adapter, the Motorola Wireless Internet Calling Kit also includes 30 free SkypeOut minutes so users can make Skype calls to mobile and landline phones without additional charges. To experience wireless communications, users plug in the Motorola PC850 PC Adapter to equip traditional laptops and PCs with Bluetooth technology, load the required software onto the PC and follow a step- by-step procedure to establish the cordless connection between the PC and Motorola H500 headset. "Motorola and Skype are combining the power of Internet telephony with Bluetooth technology, redefining the ways that consumers can stay in touch," said Bruce Hawver, vice president and general manager, Motorola, Inc., Companion Products. "Multi-taskers will be impressed with the streamlined communications, using the Motorola H500 Bluetooth Headset for either wire-free mobile or Internet-based calls." "By working with Motorola, we're delivering products that make Skype more accessible to consumers and businesses," said Niklas Zennstrom, Skype CEO and co-founder. "The Motorola Wireless Internet Calling Kit is the first Skype- recommended Bluetooth solution in America, reinforcing our mission to evolve the Skype solution beyond the desktop for on-the-go communications." With up to approximately eight hours of talk time and a lightweight, ergonomic fit, the Motorola H500 lets Skype users wirelessly connect for Internet calls -- up to 30 feet away from a Bluetooth-enabled PC. Skype users can also have calls automatically forwarded to their compatible Bluetooth-enabled mobile phones when away from the PC and use the Motorola H500 Headset to wirelessly conduct cord-free conversations on their mobile phone. Pricing and Availability The Skype Motorola Kit is available today at RadioShack and at the online Skype store for $99.99. Source: Motorola Posted by jlewin at 10:19 PM | Comments (0) Apple Cuts Deals to Secure Flash Memory
“We want to be able to produce as many of our wildly popular iPods as the market demands,” said Steve Jobs, Apple’s CEO. As part of these agreements, Apple intends to prepay a total of $1.25 billion for flash memory components during the next three months. Flash memory is used in several of Apple's popular iPods. Source: Apple Posted by jlewin at 05:49 PM | Comments (0) Harvard Offers Course via PodcastsHarvard students with iPods can now rock out to the latest track from the Harvard Extension Schoo, Computer Science E-1. The course, Understanding Computers and the Internet, is the third-largest computer science course at the Extension School. “Since students have historically taken advantage of recordings of lectures…we simply wanted to make the course accessible to students in a more portable format,” according to course instructor David J. Malan. “E-1 may now, in fact, be the first computer science course you can take while jogging.” Sarka Dluhosova said she attends lectures and listens to lecture Podcasts when doing homework or reviewing before an exam. “I can do it anywhere—I can listen to it when I’m on a bus or when I walk, when I run, when I drive,” Dluhosova said. For Dluhosova, Podcasting has become essential to her learning experience. “I think I would expect it from now on almost as a standard, because I think it’s very helpful, it definitely adds to the quality of learning,” she said. Source: The Harvard Crimson Posted by jlewin at 08:31 AM | Comments (0) Podcasting Now Part of Media MixA new Chrysler/CNN advertising deal suggests that podcasting has become one more part of the media mix. CNN has signed a multi-million dollar deal with Chrysler that covers every digital media platform. The dea includes on-air, print and online as well as wireless, podcasting, video on demand and interactive TV components. The agreement makes Chrysler the sole sponsor for CNN’s coverage of the selection of corporate sibling Time’s Person of the Year. CNN will profile all eight candidates via VOD, podcasting and online, with each segment wrapped by Chrysler promos customized for the individual platforms. According to Media Week, eighty percent of CNN’s ad revenue is now tied in with integrated TV and online buys, up from 20 percent in 2003. Source: Media Week Posted by jlewin at 08:27 AM | Comments (0) Tivo to Support iPod VideoDigital video recorder maker TiVo Inc. is planning to let its users download any television program stored on their recorders to video iPods. According to a Wall Street Journal report, TiVo is making the move without Apple Computer Inc.'s involvement. Apple recently launched a new generation of its iPod digital music player that can play video on its 2.5-inch color screen. TiVo plans to begin testing software to enable video downloads to iPods from its digital video recorders within the next couple of weeks. It said the company intends to make the software available to all TiVo users in the first quarter of 2006 for a one-time fee, most likely between $15 and $30. Source: WSJ Posted by jlewin at 08:14 AM | Comments (0) November 19, 2005Tim Bourquin Interview: Next Year's Portable Media Show Will Be Much Bigger
Tradeshow business, that is. Bourquin owns TNC New Media, a tradeshow and online media company, and hosted the recent Portable Media Expo and Podcasting Conference, held in Ontario, California. The show was, by all accounts, a tremendous success, with more than twice the attendance that was originally expected, a jam-packed schedule of content and execution better than many well-established conferences. Bourquin is also the host of EnduranceRadio, a podcast that features audio interviews with athletes involved in endurance sports, in addition to other podcasts. Podcasting News' Elisabeth Lewin caught up with Bourquin as he was wrapping up the Portable Media Expo, and preparing for his next conference.... Q: Tim, congratulations on the Podcast Expo, and thanks for taking time to speak with Podcasting News.. Have you recovered yet from last weekend's show? Tim Bourquin: Oh, yeah, but can you believe it, my company is launching another trade show -- this weekend -- in Las Vegas (laughs)!. Q: The Expo was a big success. What were the final attendance numbers? Tim Bourquin: 2,037. A year ago, when we started working on this show, we thought that 1,000 attendees would be the measure of big success. I'm really thrilled by how many people came. Q: Were you surprised by the response to the show? Tim Bourquin: I was surprised by the numbers of people on the corporate side of podcasting who came to the show. I knew that individual podcasters would want to come - to meet up with other podcasters and see the gear. I expected that 90% of our folks would be those individual podcasters, but the breakdown was actually 60% independent podcasters and 40% of the participants were corporate. I was so surprised. Q: Since the show ended up being much bigger than you originally expected, what challenges did this create? Tim Bourquin: Well, the whole show sold out, and in the days leading up to the Portable Media Expo, we had fire marshall issues and stuff! By the time the show was underway, attendees didn't see the problems - they were all smoothed out. There were a few glitches, like mics that didn't work, things like that, but really the show itself went very smoothly. We have great floor staff and meeting planners to handle the show once it's underway. There were also some people who had bought plane tickets and reserved hotel rooms, but hadn't registered for the show. It was frustrating to have to turn them away. Next year, we're going to be much bigger. We'll have plenty of space. Q: How big was the team that worked on this year's show? Tim Bourquin: There's a team of six of us who work all year on planning events. When we get closer to the show, we hire 10 - 12 more people to get ready. During the show, with people who check badges and all that, there can be upwards of 40 people working on the show. Q: What sort of feedback have you been getting on the Expo? Tim Bourquin: We've gotten overwhelmingly positive responses from people who were at the show. People are also sharing their pet project ideas and suggestions, things they really want to see next year. I urge everybody to email me with their feedback. This show needs to be about the attendees. Some of the individual podcasters, the hobbyists, they were glad to meet other podcasters. Several said they thought the show was heavy on the "monetization" side. Since there was never a show like this before, I didn't know what kind of response to expect, or what people would like to see. I designed it to reflect the kinds of sessions I would like to see, and I was definitely interested in figuring out how to make money from podcasts. We will have more "tracks" in the future for show attendees, so folks who don't worry about the moneymaking aspect will have other sessions to choose from, too. Q: Another issue we heard from several podcasters was that the conference was scheduled so tightly that there wasn't much time for networking. Any chance of getting an hour off for lunch at next year's Expo? Tim Bourquin: (laughs) We're definitely making adjustments to the schedule for next year -- stretching out the schedule to make room for lunch, and rest breaks, too. There was just so much to showcase, and such a limited time to fit it all in! Q: Can you share any plans or changes that you have in store for next year's show? Tim Bourquin: We'll be sure to be including:
Next year's Portable Media Expo will be September 29-30, 2006. Q: Tim, what excited you the most, personally, about the show? Tim Bourquin: With any show, you think it looks really good on paper, but the big thrill is being there to watch it all come together. You see exhibitors setting up their stuff, you see people arriving, see them excited to meet the other people. Being the host of an event like that, it's really rewarding. It feels really great to see it all come together. Posted by jlewin at 10:10 AM | Comments (1) DLO introduces Action Jacket for 5G iPod
Action Jackets are padded cases that feature a play-thru design. The workout-ready armband fits any arm size. The belt clip securely attaches the iPod anywhere and rotates for a perfect "hipside" fit. For colors are availalbe: red, blue, black and grey. Features:
Source: DLO Posted by jlewin at 08:30 AM | Comments (0) DLO Ships PodFolio Deluxe 5G iPod Case
PodFolio for video iPod is specifically designed to protect the glass finish surface of the new iPods from scratches or dings, and the padded flip cover has a pocket inside that can be used to store an ID or business cards. Features:
PodFolio retails for $29.95. Source: DLO Posted by jlewin at 08:17 AM | Comments (0) Belkin Adds Four 5G iPod CasesAt the recent Portable Media Expo and Podcasting Converence, Belkin announced four new cases for 5G iPods. Kickstand Case for 5g iPod (F8Z068) – $29.99 The Kickstand Case integrates a stand display so you can easily watch video from your 5G iPod. Its versatile, detachable carabiner clip lets you safely carry your iPod anywhere. You have full access to your screen and click-wheel through a protective plastic screen cover. The Kickstand Case is constructed of fine-grain leather and is available in black and in white.
Classic Case for 5g iPod (F8Z071) – $19.99 The Classic Case in black safeguards your iPod with a protective plastic screen cover and a sturdy, double-stitched case design in fine-grain leather construction. The screen cover also lets you enjoy full access to your iPod and click-wheel. And, its built-in belt clip helps manage your excess earbud cables.
Holster Case for 5g iPod (F8Z074) – $19.99 The Holster Case, which comes in black and is constructed in high-grade PVC, protects your iPod with a durable, full-enclosed design. You can attach your iPod in various positions with its built-in, rotating belt clip. The Case features a detachable lanyard.
Flip Case for 5g iPod (F8Z069) – $29.99 The Flip Case, available in black and in white, fully envelops your iPod. A protective, plastic screen cover lets you enjoy full access to your iPod screen and click-wheel. Its built-in belt clip helps manage your excess earbud cables. The belt clip can also be used with an adhesive knob to secure the iPod on the dashboard.
Source: Belkin Posted by jlewin at 08:02 AM | Comments (0) November 18, 2005Belkin Intros Two Nano CasesBelkin has introduced two new iPod nano cases. The Classic Case and Holster Case follow the nano's minimalist industrial design approach while still offering various aspects of user functionality. The cases will be available in North America in early December. Classic Case for iPod nano (F8Z070) - $24.99 The Classic Case in black safeguards nanos with a durable plastic screen cover and a double-stitched case design in fine-grain leather construction. The screen cover also lets users enjoy full access to the iPod and click-wheel.
Holster Case for iPod nano (F8Z073) - $24.99 The Holster Case, which comes in black and is constructed in high-grade PVC, completely protects nanos with a durable, full-enclosed design. Attach an iPod in various positions with a built-in, rotating belt clip. The Case features a detachable lanyard.
The cases will be available in North America in early December. Source: Belkin Posted by jlewin at 06:40 PM | Comments (0) EFF Presses Sony on CD Spyware Problem
Sony CDs that include copy-protection technology have been found to install software, without authorization of the user, that can compromise the security of PCs. EFF Requests that Sony:
Source: EFF Posted by jlewin at 06:27 PM | Comments (0) Intel iBooks Coming in January
It's thought that Apple will expand the iBook line with one additional model and will lower prices by $200 or more, to entice current Windows users. "This is not a total surprise to me," said Roger Kay, president of Endpoint Technologies Associates, a computer industry intelligence firm. "It would be a very Apple-like thing to do to come out with Intel-based Macs early and to accelerate the schedule and surprise people." "It makes a lot of sense to first introduce Intel chips into Apple consumer notebooks," commented analyst Joe Wilcox of Jupiter Research. "I see the potential risks as being less and the potential benefits being much greater." Source: Apple Insider Posted by jlewin at 08:33 AM | Comments (0) New shuffles to Get SmallApple Insider reports that the next generation of iPod shuffles will be smaller than the existing models. "We are hearing of an even smaller form factor (smaller than a pack of gum) and the potential for the re-introduction of multiple colors," said American Technology Research analyst Shaw Wu in a research note. Wu believes the new shuffle could come as early as January and said Apple's preparation for the product refresh was likely behind its recent move to add Hynix as a third supplier of NAND flash memory chips. Source: Apple Insider Posted by jlewin at 08:31 AM | Comments (0) New Player Likes it WetJens of Sweden has introduced the MP-X, the first MP3-player "adapted to the Scandinavian weather." MP-X is made of soft and durable urethane rubber, perfect for sports or use in the rain. The player is sold in 512 Mb and 1 Gb versions (150 or 300 songs) and also doubles as an USB-file store.
”Close to one-third of the Swedes do sports, and it rains between one-third and over half of all days here. If you invest in a MP3-player and put your music and music licenses in it, you have to be able to feel safe knowing that it will stand moisture, rain and blows,” said Jens Nylander, Managing Director JoS. Weighing the equivalent of six A4-pages of paper and equipped with a clip, the MP-X can be attached anywhere on clothing or on a bag. MP-X is sold without any other accessories than a USB-cable, offering the buyer the choice of the earphone best suited to his or her own ear. Specifications: MP-X: Sound format: MP3, WMA, ASF, OGG-Vorbis-music files. Internal Li-Polymer-battery with about 12 hours of playing time, loaded through the computer, as well as an internal USB 2.0 hi-speed port, compatible with USB 1.1. System requirements for the computer: Windows 98-SE/ME/2000/XP, USB-port and 128 Mb ram minimum. Macintosh: OS 9.2 or later. 20 mW + 20 mW effect to be compared to MP-120 18 mW + 18 mW. DRM-support PD-DRM 9.0, Xsync and MediaRose. Six equalizer settings in order to optimise the sound. Dimensions 54 x 43 x 11 mm. MP-X is delivered with an USB-cable, optional accessories available on www.jensofsweden.com include a wide range of earphones, an arm band and an MP-X kit with a 220 Volt travel charger and Koss Spar plug earphones. The MP-X kit costs €16 excluding VAT. Jens of Sweden MP-X is sold directly on www.jensofsweden.com, without any middlemen for only €68 or €85 respectively excluding VAT. The player comes with a two-year warranty, as well as a 30 day satisfaction-guaranteed or money-back guarantee for all credit and cash card customers. Posted by jlewin at 08:18 AM | Comments (0) New Podcasting Network Delivers Customized News PodcastsRawVoice introduced the PodcasterNews Network (PCN) at the recent Portable Media Expo. The Podcaster News Network lets listeners customize personalized podcast news shows. “This is the ultimate customized audio news program,” said Todd Cochrane, President and CEO of RawVoice “The PodcasterNews Network lets someone pick the topics they want to hear and puts them together into one program feed, called a MyCast. You want a little tech news, some sports and some fashion tips each day, then that’s what you put in your MyCast. “PCN is for people who are tired of waiting to hear what they care about. It allows them to construct and download a news program that is 100% in tune with their interests,” said Jeevan Padiyar, RawVoice CFO. The podcasters contributing to PCN inject their own opinions into their shows. “By being passionate about their subject areas, our podcasters bring the news to life,” Cochrane said. PCN contributors already have established long format podcasts. The best part about PCN, according to Cochrane is that each news segment has fresh ideas and commentary, and runs just five minutes. “We want to ensure complete user satisfaction, and the best way to do that is to give the end user as many choices as possible,” added Brian Yuhnke, the companies Creative Director, “but the greatest part of the site is the MyCast which allows visitors to create an account and pick only the segments they want included in their MyCast.” PCN automatically updates each MyCast with the newest content from only those categories already selected, so that a fresh news show is available each day. The diverse podcaster line up includes Mental Health Guru Dr. Fran Babiss, New York GLBT activist Allen Roskoff and Bay-area pastor and commentator Reverend Tim Hohm. Users can include segments from as many podcasters as they want, and podcasts on a variety of topics are being added to PCN every day. Source: PodcasterNews Posted by jlewin at 07:52 AM | Comments (0) November 17, 2005Santa is Podcasting
According to Santa's Journal, "Santa will be broadcasting from the North Pole for the first time in history, keeping everyone informed on the latest happenings at the North Pole." A recent episode discusses Santa's Christmas Eve Timeline. The site is sponsored by Five Star Experience, a company that specializes in adventure travel. Note to Santa - bring yourself a podcast-legal theme song for Christmas. Nobody is going to sue Santa, but they might go after your buddies. Santa's Journal Podcast Details Source: Santa' Journal Posted by jlewin at 07:32 AM | Comments (0) November 16, 2005App Streamlines Converting Videos for iPod
"The video iPod is an excellent device to view your videos on," said Todd Porter, Diversified Multimedia's founder and president. "But getting your content to the device is either not supported at all -- in the case of DVDs, VCDs, SVCDs and tapes -- or highly dependent upon the codecs on your PC. Video Vault solves this problem in a simple-to-use interface that also helps consumers to organize their personal video library." "Our whole product line is devoted to helping consumers make the most out of today's portable and mobile lifestyle," said Mr. Porter. Last month, Diversified Multimedia introduced Video Vault for the Sony PSP, a similar Video Vault for Apple Video iPod Features:
Video Vault for the Apple Video iPod has a suggested retail price of $39.99 and will be available at retail locations later this year. Source: Diversified Multimedia Posted by jlewin at 08:16 AM | Comments (2) November 15, 2005Nine Systems Adds Podcasting Support to Stream OS
“Consumer demand for time-shifting digital content will continue to grow and podcasting is one of the emerging platforms to satisfy this critical increasing need,” said Ben Bajarin, Analyst, Creative Strategies. “Companies like Nine Systems that can provide a flexible solution for content producers to easily and simply deliver video and audio podcasts to on-the-go audiences are well positioned.” Nine Systems podcasting solution is seamlessly integrated with Stream OS, allowing content owners to upload and submit audio and video podcasts as easily as other rich media content. Stream OS is a web-based environment that lets users manage and deliver all streaming and downloadable media including WindowsMedia, RealMedia, QuickTime, Flash, MP3, software downloads, and electronic documents. The podcasting solution allows content producers to control the podcasts that are made available to their audiences. Other features of the podcasting solution include publish of podcasts for on-demand streaming and download content and live streaming content and guaranteed compatibility with iTunes and other aggregators with support for RSS 2.0, iTunes elements and Yahoo! Media RSS 1.1.0. The Stream OS podcasting platform also tracks podcast circulation, syndication, aggregator type and click-through with extensive reporting. The Nine Systems’ podcasting solution is available for customers immediately. Source: Nine Systems Posted by jlewin at 10:51 PM | Comments (0) iBuzz Delivers Positive Podcast VibrationsPodcasters - speak slowly and in a calm, soothing tone as you begin your next podcast. Take some time to get to know your listeners, too. Put on some podcast-legal R'n'B music and get your podcast groove going. Yeah - that's right.... Remember, somewhere out there in podcast land, you may have a listener using an iBuzz.
Described as "A super-fun sex toy that plugs into your iPod," the iBuzz is a music-activated vibrating bullet. The iBuzz is currently only available for despatch to European countries. This product can not be shipped to the United States, Canada or Australia. Source: LoveHoney Posted by jlewin at 10:25 PM | Comments (0) Survey Finds 4.8 Million Podcast Listeners
The study estimates that 4.8 million persons have at some time during 2005 downloaded a podcast from either a radio station or other source. iTunes was referrenced as the most often accessed portal for podcast downloads. The 4.8 million estimate is up from 820,000 podcast users in 2004. According to Bridge Ratings, growth in podcasting will accelerate quickly, due to rapid acceptance of the technology by the radio broadcast industry in 2005 and Apple's iTunes distribution. The study focuses on two metrics: Weekly users and those that have ever downloaded and listened to a podcast. Bridge predicts that by 2010, the podcast audience will reach between 45 and 75 million users who will have ever listened to a podcast. The study shows that currently approximately 20% of users who have ever downloaded and listened to a podcast do so on a weekly basis. This group downloads an average of six podcasts per week and spends approximately four hours a month listening to the podcasts they download. According to the survey, less than 20% listen to their podcast downloads on an MP3 player or other digital device. Markets including in this study: Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, St. Louis, Chicago, Boston, Washington, DC, Miami, Dallas, Atlanta. Source: Bridge Ratings Posted by jlewin at 10:17 PM | Comments (0) New iPod Docks RockBrand Incubator has created two heavy iPod dock designs, the Wabi and the Sabi.
The 1.7 kg "Wabi" is designed for iPod Minis, and features a standard audio connector. The heavier "Sabi" for iPod weighs in at 2.6kg and has 5 video connectors in addition to the audio jack. Both designs features USB 2.0 connectors and come with a 2-year warranty. Source: Brand Incubator, via Mobile Mag Posted by jlewin at 10:08 PM | Comments (0) New App Puts Internet Radio on iPods
According to X-OOM, the software can record up to 400 songs an hour, each saved as an individual MP3 file. It can also transfer the files to other audio devices or burn the MP3s to an audio CD. Additional Features:
System requirements: X-OOM is available for $29.95. Source: X-OOM Posted by jlewin at 06:00 PM | Comments (0) Magnatune Offers to Fill Your iPod for $200Magnatune, an innovative online label based on Creative Commons music, is inviting music fans to "fill their iPods." The campaign offers to save customers thousands, with a package that includes 400 albums, 35 GB of music, for only $200. "iPod owners envisioned themselves having a lot more music once they left the CD world," Buckman explains, "but it costs thousands to fill a 40 GB iPod," said label founder John Buckman. plans to offer his customers a better way to build their music collection. Magnatune has also embraced podcasting, making it easy for podcasters to include Creative Commons music in their podcasts. Magnatune also plans a series of podcasts designed to provide an alternative to mainstream radio, featuring music from Magnatune's artists. Magnatune will broadcast genre specific podcasts each week as well as occasional podcasts showcasing new additions to the catalog. Magnatune offers a customer-friendly approach to online music, letting customers choose how much to pay for music, and letting users burn three copies of any album they purchase to "spread the love" among their friends. Source: Magnatune Posted by jlewin at 08:06 AM | Comments (0) November 14, 2005AOL & Warner Intro Their Vision for the Future of TV: RerunsCommentary: Elle Webb AOL and Warner Bros. have joined together to create In2TV, their vision for the Internet-based television of the future! The new broadband network promises to offer full, ad-supported reruns of Welcome Back Kotter, Chico and the Man, and Growing Pains. Welcome Back, Kotter? Chico and the Man? Available for free? I'd be impressed....if it were 1975. I'd be impressed, if it didn't take two (2) media conglomerates to bring you ad-supported reruns of cutting edge fare like Growing Pains. I'd be impressed, if I thought that "Up your nose with a rubber hose" was hysterical. If AOL and Warner Brothers are trying to capture that elusive downwardly-mobile, late-adopter crowd, they may have a chance. Meanwhile, the iPod crowd is finding new content and new ways to get content. Warner Brothers - wake me up when you've got The West Wing, or ER, or The Sopranos available on-demand. AOL - wake me up when you start creating interesting Internet-friendly content that I can download and watch on my iPod. In2TV - wake me up, when your vision for Internet TV is something besides reruns. Until then, I'm changing the channel. To quote Gil-Scott Heron: The revolution will not be televised, will not be televised, Note to In2TV: you might want to buy the In2TV domain name. It looks like the people in Kenya that it's registered to are willing to sell:
Posted by jlewin at 11:22 PM | Comments (0) MillionDollarPodcasts LaunchesMillionDollarPodcasts.com, a site that is selling space on its homepage by the pixel to podcasters, is officially up and running. Podcasters and advertisers can buy advertising space, based on pixel units, and link to their podcast shows or podcasting related sites. The ads will be displayed for at least 3 years (December 2008), according to Barry Onyango, the webmaster at MillionDollarPodcasts.com. "The site is a first of it's kind in the podcasting arena. The concept is great and has proven popular in other contexts, why not apply it to the podcasting market?" said Onyango. The site has been in pre-launch for 20 days. Many features have been improved, including choosing pixel space by the click of a mouse and automatic placement, once payment is made. Source: MillionDollarPodcasts.com Posted by jlewin at 06:38 PM | Comments (0) November 13, 2005iPodder Lemon Gets New Name - Juice
"We all knew it was coming," said developer Scott Grayban in a forum post. "Apple went after us over the "iPod" part in our name." The Juice team says that the new name reflects the fact that the application is not limited to working with iPods. "It's time to move beyond the pod," said Martijn Venrooy, a Juice team member. "Most people don't realize that we've shipped support for Windows Media Player for over a year now and we've almost finished WinAmp support. "The Lemon is part of our mythology because of our fresh approach to getting media," said Mark Alexander Posth, the team's content strategist. "After squeezing iPodder out, what remains is pure Juice." The product's full name is Juice Receiver. "All the good short domain names were taken," said Garth Kidd, a Juice programmer, "so you'll have to type juicereceiver.sf.net or juicereceiverstore.com to get a copy of the re-branded software. Sorry about that." "Please do it soon," added Kidd. "I'd like to keep my house." Juice has evolved from its basic beginnings as the world's first podcasting software to a mature, fully featured application. Juice (as iPodder) has been downloaded over 1 million times since its debut last year. Juice will continue to be donation supported, based on open source software and licensed under the GPL (General Public License). Source: Juice Posted by jlewin at 06:41 PM | Comments (1) Disney Debuts Official Disneyland Podcast
"Our initial podcasts in May and July were so well received by listeners that we have decided to produce a monthly magazine-style show emanating from the Disneyland Resort," states Duncan Wardle, vice president of press and publicity for the resort. "These podcasts will be an entertaining and engaging way for people to stay connected to our great heritage, find out what's new and hear what's coming in the near future." Each show will feature interviews with Disney Imagineers, animators, entertainers, authors, celebrities, Resort Cast Members and artisans of every kind. The current Disney podcast features interviews to celebrate the autumn season. Michael Geoghegan scares up some frightful fun with Jason Surrell, Disney Imagineer and author of the book "The Haunted Mansion: From the Magic Kingdom to the Movies." Geoghegan also conjures up a conversation with master Disney animator Andreas Deja, who has drawn a rogues gallery of Disney villains. The podcast closes as Geoghegan takes listeners to the 50th anniversary of "The Mickey Mouse Club" celebration at Disneyland in October. The Disney podcast made its initial debut in May, 2005, during the launch of the "Happiest Celebration on Earth," the 18-month global commemoration of the 50th anniversary of Disneyland, continuing throughout 2006. It was the first time that any Disney resort in the world utilized the rapidly growing medium of podcasting. Posted by jlewin at 02:28 AM | Comments (0) Podtrac Launches Free Podcast Advertising ServiceAt the Portable Media Expo and Podcasting Conference, Podtrac announced its new podcast advertising service . Podtrac provides a complete podcasting advertising infrastructure including: third-party measurement, demographic and behavioral profiles, podcast media kits, and content ratings -- all free-of-charge to any podcast -- as well as podcast advertising and sponsorships. The combined suite of podcast services offer the podcast industry a complete advertising business model. Podcasting is the most exciting media for free speech and artistic expression," said Mark McCrery, Podtrac's Co-Founder and CEO. "In order for any market to rapidly grow, it needs a strong infrastructure and business model that encourages growth. Our goal is to help expand the podcast market by providing podcasters with an advertising revenue stream based on targeted and relevant advertising in formats which protect the podcast listening and viewing experience." "In order to establish confidence in buying and selling advertising, it is critical for podcasters and advertisers to have reliable third-party measurement data backed by a sound methodology," said Robert Freeland, Podtrac's Co-Founder and CTO. "Podtrac meets the demands of podcasters and advertisers by answering the critical 'who' and 'how many' questions about listeners and viewers for any podcast." Free Podcast Measurement and Profiling Service Podtrac provides a several free services for podcasters and advertisers , including podcast demographic profiles, third party podcast measurement services, a customized podcast media kit and a content self-rating system for podcasts. Podtrac Audience Survey. Podtrac provides every podcast with a web-survey designed to collect the demographic and behavioral profiles of individual podcast listeners or viewers. The Podtrac Audience Survey was developed with Taylor Nelson Sofres (TNS) and Mediamark Inc. (MRI). TNS is the largest custom research organization in the world. MRI is the country's leading provider of magazine audience and multimedia research data for publishers, agencies and advertisers. Podcasters receive a unique link to track and analyze the specific responses to their podcasts. Analysis of satisfaction drivers and special "gap scores" help podcasters to improve their podcasts. Individual audiences' product category credibility ratings help podcasters and advertisers know which products and service categories are most appropriate for advertisements. Podtrac Demographics. In conjunction with MRI, Podtrac brings the same demographic research advertisers have in traditional media to podcast media. From the demographic and behavioral profile data collected by the Podtrac Audience Survey, Podtrac calculates indices to MRI's Survey of the American Consumer and provides the results to both podcasters and advertisers. The Survey of the American Consumer is a national probability study of U.S. adult's demographics, media and product usage, attitudes and lifestyle. Podtrac Measurement Service. Podtrac provides third-party measurement of podcasts, as a free service to any podcast. The Podtrac Measurement Service was developed to provide counts of podcast listenership and viewership, including: downloads by episode, downloads by month, unique downloads by month, unique downloads by episode and downloads by country. The Podtrac Measurement Service works for every podcast, hosting provider, podcast network, and with any download or playback software. Podcasters receive a Podtrac Measurement Seal so that advertisers can easily identify Podtrac Measured Podcasts. Podtrac Media Kit. The kit includes: a podcast profile with the podcast graphic; best episodes, podcast frequency, and host information; Podtrac Audience Survey results with audience demographics such as listener/viewer lifestyle, technology usage and leisure activities; Podtrac Measurement Reports revealing audience size and behavior; and ad rates and revenue potential. Podtrac Content Rating System. The system enables podcasters to self-rate their content based on five categories: All, Parental Control, Explicit, Graphic Violence or Pornographic. Podtrac provides podcast listening and viewing audiences with tools to monitor content ratings through audience feedback. Podtrac Highlighted Several Benefits for Podcasters
Advertiser Benefits
"Podtrac takes away the barriers of entry to the entire podcasting market by enabling podcasters to grow their audiences through targeted advertising and a business model that is attractive to both podcasters and advertisers," said McCrery. Podtrac's Advertising Model Podtrac's advertising formats are designed to protect the podcast listening and viewing audience, by targeting relevant advertising and sponsorships to specific podcast listeners and viewers, as well as providing the right format for specific podcasts. Podtrac advertising consists of announcer read and produced spot formats. With the announcer read format, the podcast host reads a sponsor-like message, within the first minute and 30 seconds of the podcast. A 30 second produced spot is inserted at the end of the podcast. The content is provided by the advertiser. The produced spot format provides ad formats that are more analogous to traditional audio or video media but in shorter formats. Podcasters decide which advertising or sponsor format is best for their podcast. Podcasters share a percentage of the revenue collected with Podtrac. Source: Podtrac Posted by jlewin at 02:18 AM | Comments (0) Portable Media Expo Update; Podcasting ArrivesThe Portable Media Expo & Podcasting Conference, held Nov 11-12 in Ontario, California has wrapped up, leaving 2,500 portable media content creators exhausted from two days of densely packed sessions. Show founder Tim Bourquin did a fantastic job of organizing the show; the facility was great, the sessions were varied, and both days were packed with content. Discussion topics included audio production, ecommerce tools for selling audio and video, the future of music licensing, citizens media, business models for portable media, podcast hacking, audience metrics and podcasting legal issues. We only hope that next year, there will be time in the schedule for networking over lunch.
While several speakers talked about content for cell phones and the PC as a mobile content platform, the conference was dominated by podcasting, especially audio podcasting. We spoke with several long-time podcasters about their impressions. Overall, the people we talked to were impressed with the expo, and satisfied with the sessions. A few podcasters that we talked to were disappointed by the emphasis on "monetization", but all seemed to be glad that they came to the show. Highlights Many of the podcasters we talked with thought that the best sessions were those featuring established podcasters. IT Conversation's Doug Kaye gave an excellent discussion about Audio Production at IT Conversations. Kaye dove deep into topics like compression, RMS normalization, bitrates and production standards. The session provided technical info on producing a high-quality podcast, but was presented so that even podcasting newbies could get something out of it. Reel Reviews' Michael Geoghegan session on The Realities of Monetization and Corporate Use of Podcasting was one of the best of the show. Geoghegan has translated his work on Reel Reviews into success as a podcaster for Disney and other companies. Geoghegan suggested that the biggest benefit of doing a podcast was credibility and access as a journalist within the community of your topic. He suggested that podcasters need to invest in their shows; consider themselves to be media companies; and ask what their worth. He also suggested that podcasters should look for opportunities to turn their podcasting expertise into corporate work. He showed examples of problems in corporate podcasts, such as GM's failing to put meta data in their podcast, Warner Brothers' hyping the House of Wax podcast and then stagnating it, and audio clipping with a Newsweek podcast. To Geoghegan, these are proof that podcasters have value that they can offer to prospective companies. Some of Geoghegan's tips for podcasters were:
On Friday, the Music in Podcasts: The Future of Music Licensing drew a standing-room-only crowd. The discussion drew a lively debate. Many podcasters seemed to have the attitude that the RIAA was wrong-headed and that they needed to embrace podcasting. The panelists, though, seemed to agree that podcasters should not hold their breath for the music industry to change, and instead should forge ahead with getting permission directly from independent artists or use Creative Commons-licensed music. Another great session was Advertising Business Models for Portable Content and Podcasting. While some podcasters are still skeptical about the idea of making money with a podcast, others are actually doing it, and companies are stepping in to provide advertising services. The session included panelists from several companies that are creating new services around podcasting. It was clear that there will not be one way to make money with podcast advertising, but a whole range of approaches and technologies. Phillip Torrone, Make magazine's hacking tsunami, talked about Podcast Hacking: All the Things You Should (and Shouldn't) Do When Recording, Capturing and Publishing Podcasts on Computers and Mobile Devices. PT discussed crafter Ulla-Maaria Mutanen's Craft Manifesto. While PT's given this discussion elsewhere, he made it fresh by using it as a framework to talk about his latest hacks on iPods and other audio visual devices. Early in his discussion, PT asked "No one's here from the FCC, right?", which let everybody know that they were in for a treat. Some of the projects Torrone discussed were his iPod VR project, hacking the CVS One-Time Use video camera, and using his dog to record location-based MP3 files. Intel's Chief Mobile Technology Evangelist Mike Trainor used his keynote to talk about the future of Intel-based portable media devices. He showed a concept PC that used the Napa dual-core architecture that is under development. Trainor said that Napa-based laptops should have about twice the performance as current laptops, while using the same energy. The architecture should have big advantages for media creation and playback. He also talked about Intel's concept of the UMPC, or ultra-mobile PC. These are concept PCs that feature 4-8" screens, have very low power requirements, are always connected and can support a full-featured OS. Posted by jlewin at 12:55 AM | Comments (0) November 12, 2005Sony CD Copy-Protection Makes PCs Easy Prey for Hackers
The Troj/Stinx-E Trojan horse appears to have been deliberately spammed out to email addresses, posing as a message from a British business magazine. Typical emails look as follows: Subject: Photo Approval Deadline "Despite its good intentions in stopping music piracy, Sony's DRM copy protection has opened up a vulnerability which hackers and virus writers are now exploiting," said Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant for Sophos. "We wouldn't be surprised if more malware authors try and take advantage of this security hole, and consumers and businesses alike would be sensible to protect themselves at the earliest opportunity." Source: Sophos Posted by jlewin at 01:15 PM | Comments (0) If it's not MP3, is it still podcasting?Developer Dave Winer, who along with Adam Curry helped create podcasting, is raising the question of whether or not "podcasts" based on proprietary audio formats, like those promoted by Apple or Audible, are even podcasts. Winer suggests that these technologies are looking to the past, instead of looking to the future: Yesterday's coverage of the Audible announcement exposed a conversation that was coming, and it boils down to the question in the title of this piece. The answer -- if you're not using MP3, you're probably trying to make podcasting into a replay of previous media. Winer also blogs that the MP3 format was chosen for its limitations as much as its flexibility: By design, podcasting took a poison pill at the very beginning of its life that made it impossible for the corporate types to subvert it without fundamentally changing what it is. That's why I was sure that Audible wasn't doing podcasting. Source: Dave Winer Posted by jlewin at 12:45 PM | Comments (1) Sony Intros iPod-Friendly Car ReceiversSony has announced two Xplod in-dash CD receivers that make it possible to use portable music players in a vehicle with a standard 1/8" mini jack cord.
"With the growing popularity of portable MP3 devices, these Xplod receivers give customers a simple way to connect their players to their car stereos," said Andrew Sivori, Sony's general manager for mobile electronics. Both models are finished in metallic black with a blue 13-segment LCD display. Each receiver has a detachable faceplate, a built-in 208-watt power amplifier, and a three-band equalizer. They also feature selectable rear/subwoofer preamp outputs, which can be used to control the frequency and output level of an external amplifier. The play back options of the CDX-GT100 include CD/CD-R/CD-RW. It is now available at most electronics retailers for about $100. The CDX-GT200 allows digital music lovers to play back CDs encoded with ATRAC3/3plus MP3 and WMA music files. It includes a wireless remote control, and is available at most electronics retailers for about $130. Posted by jlewin at 12:15 PM | Comments (0) November 11, 2005World's Smallest MP3 Player With Color Screen
The MP3 player comes in four colors, black, blue, pink and white. The miniature MP3 features, 128/512 MB flash memory, playback photos, slide shows, one inch color display, voice recording with play, pause, fast forward, reverse, next track, previous track and shuffle play. Other features include, 26-hour battery life, Li-ion rechargeable battery, CD Driver, software, headphones, FM tuner and 4,096 color display. Dennis Gentles, President of Klegg Electronics states, "We are dedicated to providing our customers with the latest in high quality consumer electronics. The attention of our world's smallest color MP3 clearly indicates the strong demand for this product.'' Mr. Gentles further stated, "Our product is now available for sale on our website. In the first quarter of 2006, we anticipate our miniature color MP3 players to be available in retail stores nationwide. Going forward, we will continue to push the edge of technology to provide the latest innovations.'' The player retails for $79.95. Source: Klegg Posted by jlewin at 11:55 PM | Comments (1) iSquint Converts Video for iPodsiSquint is an iPod video conversion app that's up to 5 times faster than Apple's tools. The application simplifies the conversion process. To use, select preferred screen size and rip.
On a 1.5GHz G4, iSquint can convert most video files to iPod-screen-sized videos in realtime. Depending on a few factors, a 20 minute video will take up anywhere from 50-150MB of disk space. Source: iSquint Posted by jlewin at 11:48 PM | Comments (0) Audible Intros Podcasting Advertising Platform
AudibleWordcast is a set of Web-based tools that let podcasters build revenue streams around capabilities such as advertising management, dynamic ad-insertion, underwriting and secured transactions. The introduction has generated controversy in the podcasting world, as some podcasters have reacted to the platform's proprietary formats and tracking technology. AudibleWordcast Features According to Audible, AudibleWordcast will be the first "audit-ready" podcasting platform capable of measuring actual subscribers, not just file downloads. Audible's TrueListener audience measurement system metrics are determined audit-ready through third-party media auditor, ImServices Group. The system is designed to let podcasters outsource many of the services needed to handle and track podcast advertising. "What we are doing with AudibleWordcast is packaging some of the best technologies, techniques, and customer support systems that have enabled us to build audible.com and its delivery platform and making them available to audio creators of all sizes," said Donald Katz, chairman and CEO of Audible, Inc. "Producers can now use these tools to create multiple revenue streams and control their costs and risk at the same time." AudibleWordcast-formatted podcasts will play on the Apple iPod and 160 other devices. Podcasters React The introduction has created some controversy within the podcasting world, because the services rely on proprietary formats and tracking mechanisms. BuzzMachines' Jeff Jarvis raises questions about the technology and finances of Audibles new system: What we need is an open system that allows any content creator to get audience data pinged back and allows them to attach measurable ads. Today on the text web, these things are free unless I choose to use a premium service for stats or ad serving. We need similar functionality for the multimedia web using MP3s and not just Audible-formatted media. Podfather Dave Winer wonders how Audible can work it's magic: I can't imagine how it works unless: 1. They modify the software that runs on everyone's playing devices and also magically give them all the ability to phone back to their servers, or 2. They've decided to change the term podcasting to mean "the shitty DRM-based service that Audible provided before podcasting wrecked their business." Internet strategist Mitch Ratcliffe, who helped design the Audible system, argues that Audible is filling a need that existing technology can't: The Audible format has always known where a user stopped listening and so forth—it preserved state across multiple devices. Doing the same thing in MP3 would require rewriting the standard, which would, essentially, break the standard. The Challenge of Podcast Advertising As podcasting develops a mainstream audience, both podcasters and advertisers have an interest in finding ways to advertise effectively within podcasts. Audible has made a bold move to transform itself from an audio content provider to a service provider for the infrastructure of commercial podcasting. Whether its service will be success or not will depend on how open podcasters and advertisers are to proprietary formats and user tracking. More information is available at the Wordcast site. Posted by jlewin at 04:35 PM | Comments (1) Portable Media Expo Update; Podcasting Meets Maslow's Hierarchy of NeedsThe Portable Media Expo & Podcasting Conference, being held Nov. 11-12 in Ontario, California, kicked off today with keynotes by Weblogs, Inc. CEO Jason Calacanis and Tech Guy Leo Laporte.
Thousands of podcasters, technologists, media creators and developers have converged for the largest podcast-related gathering yet. Jason Calacanis gave the initial keynote, and discussed options for creating businesses around podcasting. Calacanis is always a colorful speaker, and his Expo keynote was no exception. He discussed various business models for podcasting companies, and highlighted the challenge that established companies like Google, Microsoft and Yahoo pose to startups. While Weblogs, Inc.'s Engadget podcast is one of the most successful podcasts around, Calacanis said his focus is on blogs and business. He suggested that indie podcast producers are going to have a tough time competing with established blogs. He also suggested that in podcasting, like radio and TV, audience will follow on-air talent, and companies may struggle to keep good talent. Leo Laporte gave a wide-ranging keynote that complemented Calacanis' discussion. While the first keynote focused on business, Laporte focused on creating podcasts. He discussed the differences between radio and podcasting, and even shared pictures of his early days in radio. For Laporte, podcasting is a content creator's dream. Laporte framed his discussion with psychologist Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Maslow's theory suggested that there is a pyramid of needs, with basic needs like food and shelter at the bottom, and self-actualization at the top. People have to meet the lower-level needs before they can move on to higher level needs, like a sense of belonging, esteem and self-actualization. Laporte said that podcasting is at the top of Maslow's pyramid, that it should represent the passion of podcast creators. The Expo continues through Saturday. Posted by jlewin at 12:08 PM | Comments (1) Free App Rips DVDs for Video iPods
A new Podcasting News article explains how to Use Handbrake to Rip DVDs for iPod Videos. Handbrake supports a variety of sources:
It can output to a variety of formats:
Additional features:
Source: Handbrake Posted by jlewin at 09:12 AM | Comments (1) November 10, 2005Missing Sync Puts iTunes Music and Podcasts on PalmsMark/Space has introduced version 5.0 of their Mac synchronization software, The Missing Sync for Palm OS. This upgrade improves syncing with the Address Book and iCal applications in Mac OS X 10.4 "Tiger", introduces folder synchronization, Spotlight searching of memos and adds synchronization of iPhoto albums and iTunes playlists. "With its folder, iPhoto and iTunes synchronization capabilities, The Missing Sync allows Mac users to better realize the potential of today's handhelds and smartphones, highlighting the power and flexibility of devices like Palm's LifeDrive mobile manager," said Paul Leeper, director of developer relations at Palm, Inc. "The Missing Sync enhances the sync experience for Mac users."
New Features Beyond improved synchronization with Tiger's Address Book and iCal applications, version 5.0 of The Missing Sync for Palm OS has many other new capabilities. Version 5.0 introduces a new Folder Sync conduit that allows users to define folders on their Mac and Palm OS device that are then kept in sync automatically. For example, if a document is edited on a Palm OS handheld, the updated version will be copied back to the Mac the next time the Folder Sync conduit is run. Users can define multiple folders and unidirectional or bidirectional synchronization. New conduits for iPhoto and iTunes provide media synchronization. iPhoto albums can be selected for synchronization, and photos can be automatically resized for optimized viewing on the Palm OS device. Additionally, photos taken with a camera-equipped handheld or smartphone can be copied to the Mac, either into a specific folder or directly into an iPhoto album. The new iTunes conduit lets users select playlists to be synchronized with their device. All audio files in a format supported by software on the handheld are automatically copied. The plugin even supports Smart Playlists that select music at random, so new audio files will be sent to the handheld during every sync operation. Both the iPhoto and iTunes conduits can be set to ensure that a specified amount of storage space is left available on the device. New connection-aware Conduit Profiles give The Missing Sync the ability to run a specific set of conduits based on the type of connection made between a Palm OS device and a Mac. One use of this feature could be to have all conduits run when the device is connected via its cradle or USB cable, but then to only run a subset of conduits if the connection is over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi, saving time when using slower connections. Mark/Space's bundled MemoPad application runs on Mac OS X and gives users a way to create, edit and synchronize handheld notes. With the 5.0 release, MemoPad gains sorting and searching capabilities, and it also responds to Spotlight searches on Tiger, giving users more ways to quickly locate the information they need. A new series of Setup Assistants walks each user through installing bundled handheld applications and configuring synchronization settings for their specific needs. The user only needs to answer a series of questions, and The Missing Sync takes care of the rest. Pricing, Upgrades and Availability The Missing Sync for Palm OS is available for immediate download (as a four-language installer, including English, French, German and Japanese) from the Mark/Space Online Store at www.markspace.com. The electronic download sells for $39.95; retail packaged CD's will be available starting several weeks later for $49.95. All customers who purchased The Missing Sync for Palm OS on or after October 1, 2005 are eligible for free upgrades, while owners of any previous Missing Sync product, regardless of platform, are able to take advantage of a special upgrade price of $24.95. Source: Mark/Space Posted by jlewin at 10:50 PM | Comments (0) M-Audio Intros Podcast FactoryM-Audio has introduced Podcast Factory, a "professional podcasting solution". The bundle includes all the hardware and software required to create broadcast-quality podcasts using a Mac or PC.
At the heart of Podcast Factory bundle lies the Podcast Factory audio interface with microphone preamp. This 2 x 2 mobile audio interface delivers professional audio fidelity up to 24-bit/48kHz. The first of two audio channels is a dedicated XLR input for the included dynamic microphone, complete with gain control and signal LEDs. The ¼” input on the second channel toggles between instrument and line levels to accommodate a wide variety of signal sources. Audio outputs take the form of dual RCAs and a front-panel 1/8” stereo headphone jack that share a common level control. Direct hardware monitoring provides for synchronized overdubs, with the In/PB knob determining the monitor balance between input and output signal. For additional monitoring flexibility, the Mono switch sends the input signal equally to the left and right channels, allowing the source to integrate in a more balanced way with other tracks while recording. The Podcast Factory bundle includes software that easily lets users of any level record and edit program material such as speech, add music and sound effects, and post MP3s with RSS feeds to the Web. Users also get a collection of music loops in a wide variety of genres. The Podcast Factory bundle is compatible with both Macs (Core Audio) and PCs (ASIO 2 and WDM – Kernel Streaming). PC minimum system requirements are Windows XP (SP1) running on a Pentium II 350 w/ 64MB RAM. Minimum requirements on the Mac are G3* 300MHz/G4* 350MHz with OS X 10.2.8 or greater and 128MB RAM. The Podcast Factory interface is just 5.5" x 4.25" x 1.75” (14 x 10.8 x 4.5 cm) and weighs in at a mere .45 lbs (.2 kg). “Podcasting is a major phenomenon, spurred in no small part by Apple’s iTunes initiatives,” says Adam Castillo, marketing director at M-Audio. “The Podcast Factory provides a comprehensive solution for producing professional podcasts for applications as diverse as personal broadcasts, music promotion, corporate training, virtual seminars, education and more. Podcast Factory allows anyone with a message to easily create podcasts that incorporate the production values of radio-quality broadcasts.” The Podcast Factory is expected to ship in November and carries a price of $179.95 MSRP. * native USB port required; G3/G4 accelerator cards not supported. Source: M-Audio Posted by jlewin at 08:53 PM | Comments (0) November 09, 2005Olympus Bails Out of MP3 Player MarketJapan's Olympus has announced that it would halt production of portable digital music players. It was unable to keep up with Sony and Apple in the fast-growing market. The move follows the demise of the Rio player line, and 100's of Chinese MP3 manufacturers. Olympus is the world's fourth best-selling digital camera brand after Canon Inc., Sony and Eastman Kodak, but is considered one of the weaker players in an industry suffering from slowing growth and steep price falls. via: iPodNN Posted by jlewin at 08:05 PM | Comments (0) New Site Offers Free Podcast HostingShockpod is a new site that offers free and paid podcast hosting. Free users get 90MB of space. The service is supported by audio ads placed into the feeds of free users. Subscribers have the option to download the audio ads. For $4/month, podcasters can get an ad-free option. Paid users do not have ads placed in their feed, and get additional features, such as a blog, email address and 750MB of space. The site also can handle video podcasts, supporting the major media file formats. Source: Shockpod Posted by jlewin at 07:45 PM | Comments (1) November 08, 2005Wichita Rutherford: Media Innovator?Wichita Rutherford, host of the 5 Minutes with Wichita podcast, is making the jump to video. Starting November 23rd, Rutherford will be featured in the first video podcast music documentary, Van Heffer.
The video podcast is a documentary-style sitcom packed with Bluegrass and country music stars like Vince Gill, Doc Watson, Del McCoury and Jerry Douglas. The video podcast shows Wichita at his pool cleaning gig before he got the job as guitar player with Van Heffer. The star, Sherman Van Heffer, is an effeminate Elvis impersonator who performs bluegrass versions of Ozzy Osborne classics. We are not kidding you about this stuff. Each video podcast episode will be 5 minutes long. There are 6 episodes planned. Source: 5MinutesWithWichita.com Posted by jlewin at 11:22 PM | Comments (2) Tivoli Intros Portable iPod Music SystemTivoli Audio has introduced a new music system specifically made for the Apple iPod, the iSongBook.
The iSongBook features a flip-down docking station that will fit all iPod models and recharges the iPod when docked. The supplied remote control operates both the iPod and the iSongBook. The new iSongBook features a digital AM/FM tuner with a 9k/10k switch for AM reception outside North America, as well as an adjustable, telescoping FM antenna and built-in AM antenna. Stations may be tuned manually or via 5 AM and 5 FM favorite station preset buttons with a “seek” function to automatically search for signals in any country around the world. “The iSongBook is a traveling music system designed to turn an iPod into a full-bodied music system, unlike any other,” says Tom DeVesto, Chairman and CEO of Tivoli Audio. “We wanted to give consumers the same full and rich sound they’ve come to expect from Tivoli Audio products in a portable system that’s the best companion ever made for an iPod user.” The white with silver faceplate design makes the iSongBook a perfect match for the iPod. It also features an “on demand” blue backlit LCD display that shows the station tuning as well as the digital clock, whose functions include alarm and 20-minute sleep timer that can be set to wake to an iPod as well as radio. Auxiliary input and stereo headphone output are positioned in the rear, complete with rubber covers to protect them from the elements, dust and dirt when not in use. It comes with a detachable matching secondary speaker for stereo sound, a 6’ audio cable for proper room positioning with rewind mechanism for cable management, and optional carry bag. The credit card sized remote controls the iPod when docked, as well as the iSongBook.
The iSongBook operates on standard AA alkaline batteries or NiMH/NiCad rechargeable batteries with the unit’s built-in charger; or by an AC adaptor or 12V power source. The iSongBook is sized to fit in a suitcase, briefcase, or backpack, measuring just 6-3/16” H x 11-1/16” W x 2-3/16” D for the clock/radio with the slave speaker. The iSongBook is housed in a sealed cabinet with rust-proof hardware for weather resistance. It’s suggested retail price is $329.99, and it will be sold nationwide, starting in late fall 2005. Source: Tivoli Audio Posted by jlewin at 11:14 PM | Comments (0) RadioShack Gets iPod Line
RadioShack's 5,000 company stores and a select number of dealer stores are now able to offer customers the 512 MB and 1 GB iPod shuffle in white, the 2 GB and 4 GB pencil-thin iPod nano in black and white, and the new 30 GB and 60 GB iPod with video capability in black and white. Players and accessories will be featured in a branded iPod section within each store where customers can compare and contrast players, as well as see and discover the types of accessories that are available. RadioShack will carry the following models: shuffle: nano: iPod: Source: RadioShack Posted by jlewin at 11:06 PM | Comments (0) New Site Connects Podcasters with Advertisers
The site promises to be like AdSense for podcasts: easy to implement for podcasters, and providing advertisers with targetted placement. For advertisers, the minimum bid per ad is $.10/download. Fruitcast recommends that ads are 10-15 seconds in length, have no music or sound effects, and follow a sponsorship model. Source: Fruitcast Posted by jlewin at 10:54 PM | Comments (1) The Story of an iPod CaseGot a great idea for an iPod accessory? Designer Mark Williams' has blogged the fascinating story of his "simple crusade to produce an ipod case that isn't a glorified condom."
It starts out innocently enough: Then a thought struck me - I'm reasonably creative, I've got about 2/3000 quid ($5000) to throw at it before I'd have to start selling the kids - I could make a really cool case to sell, everyone would want it, and then I'll be a trillionaire. BWAHAHAHAHA. Actually producing a case, though, turns out to not be so simple. While he's taking his design from concept to production, he's plagued by concerns over Apple's whims: When you're wholly reliant on somebody elses business like you are with producing iPod stuff every iPod nuance and rumor becomes important, and if Apple announce an event you are intensely interested. So it was at the beginning of September. I watched nervously not knowing what they were going to announce. They hadn't done a festive period with the Shuffle but they could still cancel it. It all turns out OK for Williams, and he even shares what he learned from the experience. Source: bull5hit Posted by jlewin at 10:31 PM | Comments (0) New App Streamlines Podcast TranscriptionsResearchWare has released HyperTRANSCRIBE 1.0, a new software package for transcribing audio and video files.
Available for both Mac OS X and Microsoft Windows, HyperTRANSCRIBE can play more than two dozen audio and video formats and provides extensive customizable keyboard shortcuts to facilitate an efficient workflow. HyperTRANSCRIBE lets you open and play most popular audio and video formats, and provides both graphical and keyboard control to play, pause, and loop playback so your hands never have to leave the keyboard. Using Apple Computer's QuickTime technology, HyperTRANSCRIBE can play MP3, AIFF, WAV, MPEG, AVI, MOV, and many other media file types. The program automatically loads the media file next time you open a saved transcription file, and when you're done you can export your transcription to RTF or plain text. "Our goal is to make the transcription process as simple as possible," said Scott Kinder, president of ResearchWare. "We tested many different designs during the development process, and that investment has paid off in a product that provides both ease of use for the new user and complete keyboard control critical for rapid transcription." HyperTRANSCRIBE 1.0 is available for download from the ResearchWare site. A demo version is available. HyperTRANSCRIBE 1.0 requires Windows 98/NT/2000/ME/XP or Mac OS X 10.2 or later, with a minimum of 80 MB total memory, 5 MB disk space, and QuickTime 6.0 or later. Source: ResearchWare Posted by jlewin at 10:26 PM | Comments (0) New Service Adds Video to Free Internet Phone Services
The application works as a plug-in, and supports up to 200 callers. 8 incoming video windows are supported at once.
Source: Festoon Posted by jlewin at 08:35 AM | Comments (0) Feedster Betas Podcast SearchFeedster is beta testing a podcast search engine. A dynamic RSS feed is available for search results. Podcasters can add their feeds to Feedster using an online form. Podcasters can claim their feed, which will let them customize their information and add an image. Posted by jlewin at 08:29 AM | Comments (0) New Site Searches BitTorrents for iPod VideoPodtropolis is a new BitTorrent tracker dedicated to the Apple iPod. The site provides a Web search into the Bittorrent peer-to-peer network, and finds files that are formatted for video iPods. The site's CYA provides insight into the type of content shared with BitTorrent: NO files are kept on this server. This site has no control of and can not be held liable for what peers share through this tracker. All peers must be the original owners of the material they share. If they are not the original owners then they need to abide by all copyright laws. By becoming a member of this site and/or uploading, each peer is in agreement with this Disclaimer. No member information is shared with anyone other than between the Administrators and Moderators. Source: Podtropolis Posted by jlewin at 12:02 AM | Comments (0) November 07, 2005Mainstream Media Goes iPod Porn Crazy
Mainstream media is SO over Godcasting. Sure, there are hundreds of podcasts about religion and spirituality. There are Christian podcasts, Buddhist podcasts, Mormon podcasts, new age podcasts, pagan podcasts, athiest podcasts and even a podcast about the occult. They had their 15 minutes, and the mainstream media has moved on. They've moved on to iPod porn, and it looks like they are going to stay there for a while. From Australia to Washington, coverage of the video iPods quickly moves from how cool the screen is, and how you can watch video on it, to the fact that, (surprise!), you can download adult content and watch it in the palm of your hand. Mainstream media is crazy about iPod porn:
We've covered a few iPod porn stories at Podcasting News. We reported it when Podfather Adam Curry predicted a podcast porn explosion. We mentioned some of the controversy that adult iPod content was creating. And there was the juicy headline, Video iPods Going From Hot to Steamy. Adult content is part of the world of podcasting, so we'll cover it, when it is newsworthy. Here's my rocket science take on iPod porn:
That's the scoop! So next time you see a mainstream headline like Have Porn, Will IPod, remember that there are hundreds of other interesting, innovative things that people are doing with podcasts. We'll be doing our best to cover them. Posted by jlewin at 09:24 PM | Comments (1) Creative Intros Zen PhotoCreative has introduced the Zen Sleek Photo, a 20GB MP3 player and photo viewer designed to support music download and subscription services. The player features a 262,144-colour OLED 1.7-inch screen.
“The Zen Sleek Photo builds upon the successful Zen Sleek by adding photo and music subscription support out-of-the-box,” said Geraldine De Bonis, European Business Manager for MP3 Players with Creative. “The combination of FM radio, voice recording, supreme audio quality and a stunning OLED screen for photo viewing makes Zen Sleek Photo the ideal choice for anyone who wants the most from their MP3 player.” Encased in smooth brushed aluminum, the Zen Sleek Photo holds up to 10,000 songs or tens of thousands of digital photos, and delivers up to 19 hours playback from a single battery charge. The Zen Sleek Photo also offers users several new options for personalising their player. Customisable themes, including Vibrant, Earth, Cool, Peace, Romantic, Pastel, Jungle, and Fire allow users to change the overall colour scheme of menus while navigating through Creative’s patented user interface to find a particular track, playlist, artist, or album. Users can also select a favorite photo as a “wallpaper” background image on the Zen Sleek Photo and choose from a variety of coloured effects to change the look of the image. Zen Sleek Photo MP3 players also feature:
An optional docking cradle for the Zen Sleek Photo features a USB port for connecting to a PC for transferring digital tracks or easily attaching speakers, like the matching silver and white Creative I-Trigue 3400s. The Zen Sleek Photo includes a carrying case, high-fidelity headphones, a USB 2.0 cable, and a power adapter. The player is bundled with Creative MediaSource, an easy-to-use application for ripping CDs, organizing entire digital music collections, and easily transferring MP3 and WMA files. Source: Creative Posted by jlewin at 09:15 PM | Comments (1) Podcast Captures Sound of Silence
The podcast features the complete absence of sound. Episodes include Silent Alaska, Silent Las Vegas, and the world's first silent video podcast. Listen closely, and you may hear the sound of one hand clapping. John Cage lives! Posted by jlewin at 09:00 PM | Comments (1) King Kong Formatted for iPod Video
Apple has the trailer for the upcoming King Kong movie, formatted for 5G video iPods. King Kong is directed by Peter Jackson, and stars Naomi Watts, Adrien Brody, Jack Black and millions of dollars of special effects. Posted by jlewin at 08:42 PM | Comments (0) Pentagon Podcasting
"We are excited about leveraging technology that allows for more programming choices for our men and women in uniform," said Allison Barber, deputy assistant secretary of defense for public affairs. "Harnessing this new technology enhances our goal at the Pentagon Channel to communicate relevant, timely and credible military news and information to the men and women of the military." The Pentagon Channel broadcasts military news and information for and about the 2.6 million members of the U.S. Armed Forces -- Active Duty, National Guard and Reserve. Broadcasting 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week, the Pentagon Channel helps ensure that U.S. forces remain the best informed in the world. Posted by jlewin at 08:36 AM | Comments (0) November 04, 2005New Service Puts Paris in the Palm of Your Hand
According to the site, the iPod-formatted videos available for download are presented "solely for the purpose of, and in the interest in, disseminating news events or matters of public interest." Matters of public interest covered include Lindsay Lohan Wrecks Again! and Paris Hilton Parties On!. The site has sections for Current Celebrity News, Classic Celebrity News, Paris Hilton, Couple News and Musician News. Source: Celebrities.com Posted by jlewin at 01:30 PM | Comments (1) Guba Plans Video Usenet Search Service for iPods
While Guba offers up a wide variety of video, it expects its adult section to be the biggest draw. "We can kid ourselves, but in the end it's probably porn that people want," said Guba Chief Executive Thomas McInerney. The site offers a "safe mode" to filter out adult content. Guba searches through Usenet's multimedia content, which is not indexed by popular search engines such as Yahoo or Google. It also converts video into standard formats, and lets users stream small versions from its Web site. GUBA indexes 300,000 files per day from Usenet -- that is the equivalent of one image or video every .3 seconds, 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. Content found on GUBA is available for download at the maximum speed of a subscriber's connection. Sources: Australian IT, GUBA Posted by jlewin at 01:10 PM | Comments (0) New Sony Car Reciever Ready for MP3sSony has introduced an AM/FM CD/MP3 receiver capable of storing up to 500 MP3 tracks and receiving music directly from a computer.
The Xplod MEX-1GP receiver has 1GB of flash memory and a USB port built into the faceplate. When the faceplate is removed from the receiver and connected to a Windows PC, it is recognized as an external drive. Users can save MP3 and WMA files to the faceplate. The receiver also supports playback of CD-R/RW discs. Due to the unique ATRAC3/3plus playback capability of this receiver, it can play compressed music files burned onto a CD. "Our Giga Panel receiver is designed for car audio enthusiasts who crave technology not available in a factory system," said Andrew Sivori, Sony's director of marketing for mobile electronics. "We've created a way for music fans to have large, personalized collections of songs in their vehicles without the hassle of scattered CDs or MP3 players." The new receiver is finished in high-gloss black with a 13-segment LCD display for simple navigation of track and title information. The screen displays album, artist and track name when playing downloaded music files. Users can shuffle or repeat tracks, albums or personalized groups through controls on the faceplate or with the supplied remote control. The MEX-1GP unit has a built-in 208-watt power amplifier and a three-band equalizer enabling clear, rich sound. The selectable rear/subwoofer preamp outputs, controls the frequency and output level of an external amplifier. It will come with a wireless remote control and will be available in February for about $350. Source: Sony Posted by jlewin at 01:01 PM | Comments (0) November 03, 2005iKEY Records High Quality Audio to iPods, Other USB Audio DevicesiKEY-Audio has introduced the iKEY, a portable USB recorder that lets users record live audio as high-quality MP3 and WAV files directly onto iPods or other USB compatible storage devices.
The audio is saved in either MP3 (with a choice of 128, 192 or 256kbps bit rate) or WAV format, and can be immediately replayed on playback devices. Users connect a cable from their headphone jack, CD player or other output source to the iKEY, connect the iKEY to a USB storage device such as an iPod, select a digital audio format, and hit record. "The iKEY is satisfying consumer demand for an efficient way to record quality audio," stated Artie Cabasso, Gemini's Chief Executive Officer. "Whether consumers are interested in recording concerts, meetings or church sermons, the iKEY's compact design, easy connectivity and ease of use makes it the ideal product for consumers to record." The iKEY has an MSRP of $229.99. Source: iKEY-Audio Posted by jlewin at 10:40 PM | Comments (1) Will Podcasting, Satellite Destroy NPR "Sound"?
Dvorkin asks if podcasting, streaming audio and other technologies are helping to destroy the NPR "sound". "Sound, when used well, can create powerful and lasting mental pictures," writes Dvorkin. "Good radio makes the listener complicit in the act of imagination." "The craft of radio -- the use of recorded audio, the deliberate writing for a radio audience, and the use of ambient or background sound -- has been the hallmark of public radio journalism for decades. Source: NPR Posted by jlewin at 10:20 PM | Comments (0) IBM Announces Podcast Initiative; Guidelines for Corporate Podcasting
As part of this initiative, they've expanded their corporate guidelines to cover podcast-specific issues. IBM's guidelines could serve as a template for other companies considering corporate podcast initiatives. IBM Corporate Podcasting Guidelines:
The full text of the guidelines is available via the IBM DeveloperWorks site. Source: IBM DeveloperWorks Posted by jlewin at 10:00 PM | Comments (0) Dear Santa: Bring iPods!
Dear Santa; I've been good this year! I ate right, exercised and helped build a really popular podcasting website. I didn't download any of those risque video podcasts. And if I did, I deleted them right away. Anyway, can you bring me an iPod this year? Everybody is getting one. Santa, in case you don't know it, iPods are the most wanted gifts for teens this Holiday season. The Consumer Electronics Association asked a bunch of teens what they wanted, and they said iPods! Well - they really said something stupid like "portable MP3 players", but that's that's probably just the way that the survey was worded. After iPods, video game consoles, computers, portable gaming devices and cell phones rounded out the top five. Now - I know that, back in the day, kids used to happy getting a Barbie or a GI Joe. But that was a long time ago, Santa. Unless Joe's got a headphone jack in his rear, he ain't going to cut it this year! So, take it from the CEA dudes, Santa. Bring iPods! Posted by jlewin at 09:26 PM | Comments (2) Playboy, Penthouse Lust for Video iPod Adult Market
"Anyone who has developed and is rolling out a platform for the delivery of content is a company we are interested in doing business with," said according to Playboy CEO Christie Hefner, "We will be in discussions with them." Penthouse, which sells magazines in 12 languages across 40 countries, plans to make new movies tailored to portable video players as well as adapting other movies, said Penthouse CEO Marc Bell. "There are a number of portable video players and we are very excited and enthused about working with them," said Bell. "We are talking to a number of them." Source: AZ Central Posted by jlewin at 08:56 PM | Comments (0) New Swiss Army Knive Features MP3 PlayerThe SwissBit s.beat combines an MP3 player with a Swiss Army knife.
In addition to the usual blade, scissors and nail file/screwdriver, the knife sports an MP3 player with up to 4GB capacity. The s.beat will be available in capacities of 1, 2 and 4GB and will play MP3, WMA and OGG files. A built-in lithium polymer battery charges directly from a computer USB port and provides about eight hours of use. The player includes a built-in FM tuner with six presets and features a three line, high-contrast LCD display. The player is removable from the knife body. A protective cap for the USB port is also supplied so it can be used without the knife, such when travelling on a plane. The knife comes with a red remote control in the shape of the Victorinox logo, along with a set of headphones, a USB extension cable and a rubber arm strap. The knife is expected to be available in mid-November. Source: Trusted Reviews Posted by jlewin at 07:58 PM | Comments (0) Pioneer Video Podcaster Reveals Secrets
"I use an older model Powerbook G4," explained Baron. "I think its only about 900 and something MHZ." The Rocketboom Process The Rocketboom production process is remarkably simple, especially considering the rich variety of shows that they have produced over the last year. "After writing the script, we enter into the studio which consists of a camera, a laptop and two lights. We should have 3," adds Baron. "As we record a typical episode, I have my minDV camera hooked up via Firewire to the Mac and while I am capturing to tape, I also simultaneously capture to iMovie. The tape then becomes a backup and archive for high quality source material, but I eliminate the added step of capturing later. Also, while we are shooting, I can begin editing in iMovie inbetween takes. Then, upon editing, it's just a matter of compressing and uploading." Source: TUAW Posted by jlewin at 07:29 PM | Comments (0) Podcasting Lets U of A Beat the FCCThe University of Alabama in Huntsville is joining a growing number of universities podcasting. "The FCC (Federal Communications Commission) for some reason won't allow us to have a university station," said UAH podcast director Timothy McDaniel. "Podcasting is a grass-roots way to let people know what's happening on campus. It's easy, flexible and infinite." Chargercast, the U of A podcast, will feature campus coverage, sports, local music and student feedback. "This is going to be a great way to increase school spirit and reach out to alumni and prospective students," McDaniel said. " 'Chargercast' will be the voice of the student." Source: Huntsville Times Posted by jlewin at 07:03 PM | Comments (0) Cartoon Podcast Puts Something Funny in Your Pants
The first episode features four submitted cartoons beginning with "Barrista," a 2D student film by Pendelton Ward (buenothebear.com), a director currently completing his first Nickelodeon animated short. Next up is Santa Monica-based Blur Studio's (blur.com) computer generated short "In the Rough." Independent filmmaker and musician Eileen Brennan (2nimbus.com) adds the flash production "Go Spy Go." The last cartoon in Episode #1 is Dave Thomas' flash film "Mantelope" from Wild Brain (wildbrain.com), San Francisco's largest animation studio. Seibert is the executive producer of six hit series on Nickelodeon Networks, including its number one show "The Fairly Oddparents." Prior to forming Frederator Studios, Seibert served as president of Hanna-Barbera Cartoons where he produced over 100 shorts that spun off series like "Dexter's Laboratory," "Johnny Bravo," and "The PowerPuff Girls," and "Courage the Cowardly Dog." Channel Frederator distributeds character-based shorts created in all styles, including traditional 2D, flash, computer generated images (CGI) and clay. Channel Frederator was imagined and created by David Karp, and designed by Annie Chiu, principals of interactive developer Davidville. Cartoon producers from around the world are invited to submit their short films for inclusion in weekly episodes. "Every venture at our studio begins with the talent and the film," explain Seibert, "And video podcasting is their next evolution: cartoons on demand for free, ready for viewing anywhere you take them." Eric Homan, Channel Frederator's president of programming adds, "Podcasting is a fantastic way to get cartoons from some of the most spectacular filmmakers on earth in your pocket." Channel Frederator Podcast Details Posted by jlewin at 06:32 PM | Comments (0) November 02, 2005Sun Microsystems Announces Podcasting Service
Sun also plans to deliver a service to convert text files to podcasts or audio files for playback at a later date. Cracking Closed Formats Using the new Sun Grid service, virtually anyone with a Web browser will be able to upload proprietary documents, and have them automatically converted to Open Document Format (ODF). The ODF is an XML-based industry standard file format specification for office productivity applications, including text, spreadsheet and graphical documents. ODF documents are readable by any ODF-enabled applications such as OpenOffice or StarOffice, and provide an open, neutral format for users seeking to make content available to the broadest set of audiences, platforms and devices. ODF was recently adopted by the State of Massachusetts for government usage. The Sun Grid Utility service will help simplify the process of converting documents from Microsoft Office to free and open alternatives that radically lower cost, promote cross-platform communications and help users with older versions of Microsoft Windows avoid the costs and risks associated with deploying a newer release of Windows. Text-to-Podcast In addition, Sun expects to make available within the next 30 days a retail service that generates audio podcasts from any text based content, such as weblog or web site. Podcasts allow users to subscribe to audio content for playback at a later date, and provide those with visual impairments an opportunity to have the Internet "read" to them without human assistance. Both services will be accessible through a simple web user interface documents or URL's will be submitted, as photos are submitted to photo sharing services, and converted on the network as .odf or .mp3 files, accessible via any browser or appropriate application, such as OpenOffice/StarOffice or Apple's iPod. "It is clear a second generation of the web is emerging, with a broad array of on demand services available freely and ubiquitously, tied not simply to a web browser, but to any application or device that connects to the Internet," said Jonathan Schwartz, president and chief operating officer for Sun Microsystems. "The Sun Grid Utility will spare consumers and enterprises alike from having to build complex infrastructures that are better delivered via a centrally shared service." Source: Sun Posted by jlewin at 02:15 AM | Comments (0) November 01, 2005Do Public Broadcasters Get Podcasting?Stephen Hill, the public radio host of the popular ambient music program Hearts of Space, has published an impassioned essay on public radio, podcasts, and why he feels that experienced broadcasters will dominate the world of podcasting. "The pros can do it easier, faster, and generally better than all but the most organized and talented amateurs," argues Hill. "They have greater experience and resources when it comes to creating quality programming – particularly ongoing series. This accounts for the fact that professionally produced shows now account for over 90% of the iTunes top 100 podcast list, and the smutty charms of early podcast stars like Dawn and Drew are now off the list." "Conventional public radio broadcasters deliver over 12 BILLION listener hours every year in the U.S. — several orders of magnitude more than podcasters will achieve for years to come," adds Hill. "And when the aggregate of Internet delivered programming finally reaches this level of penetration, the incumbent program brands and production expertise of public broadcasters will benefit disproportionally, as will brands and personalities from commercial radio who will have established their franchises online by leveraging their on-air resources to promote their online services during the transition." Source: Stephen Hill Posted by jlewin at 09:55 PM | Comments (1) Sony Announces PSP Podcasting Support
Features
The software lets users take full advantage of the PSP system's ability to display various types of multimedia content by leveraging its capabilities as a portable music device, digital photo album, and movie viewer. Users can transfer videos, music, and still images, all via a USB-cable connecting their PSP system to a personal computer. A download-only version is available for US $19.95 at the Sony site. A boxed version, which will include a 6-foot USB 2.0 cable, sample media, and 5 free song downloads from the CONNECT music store, will be available on December 1st with an MSRP of US $29.95. PSP Media Manager The PSP Media Manager software provides quick navigation and thumbnail previews to easily identify photos and videos to move from the PC to PSP system, and even lets users select amongst different quality settings (bit rates) for the transferred media. The PSP Media Manager application supports most popular video and audio formats, and also makes it simple to locate and subscribe to a variety of RSS feeds including podcasts, video blogs, and PSP formatted magazines for automatic downloading to the PSP system. The software also provide a one-click option that lets users back up game saves, images, videos, and music files from the PSP system to their PC. "With the release of the new PSP Media Manager software, we're providing Sony technology that lets users easily optimize and transfer their content from the PC to their PSP system using a familiar drag-and-drop interface," says Dave Chaimson, vice president of marketing, Sony Media Software. "Whether your source is 16:9 high definition video footage, a collection of photos from your latest vacation, or a PSP formatted publication, this new technology lets you view and share it anywhere you and your PSP system go."
PSP Media Manager Features Includes: General Video Music Images Feeds Game Saves Additional information on the PSP Media Manager and other Sony software products can be found at www.sony.com/mediasoftware. Source: Sony via Nick at Deep Signal Studios Posted by jlewin at 08:43 PM | Comments (0) New Podcast Client for Visually Impaired@Podder is a free podcast client designed for the visually impaired. It features large fonts and high-contrast themes, few buttons/no menus, tooltip and text-to-speech reading of podcast and feed descriptions, speech tracking of download progress and reading off screen functions.
@Podder is designed for Windows users with some vision impairment but not blindness, e.g. macular degeneration, myopia, or light sensitivity. Special features include HTML output for sharing and cataloging podcasts and for linking show notes. The aPodder site also has a catalog of vision-related podcasts and initial podcasts in a series "As Your World Changes". Source: aPodder Posted by jlewin at 08:07 PM | Comments (0) Chicago Site Looking for PodcastersChicago PodCasters is looking for podcasters in the Chicago area to interview people and submit audio stories about their lives. Submissions are accepted for both general interest and the current Hot Topic podcasts. No experience is required, only a passion for audio documentation of the society you live in. "We believe the most interesting stories are living right next door, sitting across from you on the bus, and making you soup when you're sick," notes the site. Submission requirements:
Details are available at the Chicago Podcasters site. Posted by jlewin at 07:57 PM | Comments (0) Podcast of the Year and Top Person in Podcasting AnnouncedThe Portable Media Expo and Podcasting Conference Awards Committee has announced the first recipients of the event's Podcast of the Year and Person of the Year awards. Eat Feed, a podcast from creator and host Anne Bramley, has received the Podcast of the Year Award. IT Conversations' Doug Kaye has received the Person of the Year Award. About the Recipients Eat Feed features a mixture of food history and seasonal cooking interviews that has earned the podcast a growing and loyal listening audience. Anne is currently finishing her Ph.D. in English at the University of Chicago. She is studying Renaissance food and drink while she writes "The Groaning Board" food column for Renaissance Magazine and chocolate reviews at Seventy Percent, a website for chocolate connoisseurs. Doug Kaye, the creator, host and executive producer of IT Conversations, has received the Person of the Year Award. In 2005, Doug brought together a diverse team of volunteer podcasters to assist in recording, editing and producing audio sessions from technology conferences and events around the country. Team ITC’s podcasts are recognized for excellence in both audio quality and depth of content. Doug recently launched an ambitious effort to recruit and train volunteer podcasters from around the world to record and produce podcasts from any spoken word event, including conferences, lectures and meetings. Through the non-profit “Conversations Network,” Doug’s goal is to record and archive content globally from as many events as possible. Respected among his peers, Doug has done a tremendous amount of work to make a wide variety of quality audio content available via podcasts. About the Awards The Award recipients are chosen by an anonymous committee of podcasters, journalists and opinion leaders. For Podcast of the Year, the committee was asked to choose a podcast having several characteristics including:
For the Person of the Year Award, the committee was asked to choose a recipient having a positive influence on the growth and popularity of podcasting in the previous 12 months. Both recipients will be recognized for their achievements at the Portable Media Expo and Podcasting Conference 2005 Awards Reception on Friday, November 11th at 5:00pm at the Ontario Marriott. Anne Bramley will also receive a check in the amount of $1,000 as part of the Podcast of the Year Award. Source: Podcast Media Expo Posted by jlewin at 05:54 PM | Comments (0) |
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Copyright 2004-5 Podcasting News
Voice Genesis has announced the immediately availability of the Vemail VoiceEmail service. According to the company, the service supports podcasts for an estimated 50 million mobile phones in the United States and Mexico.
Apple’s iTunes Music Store broke into the top 10 list of leading music retailers, according to retail analysts The NPD Group. The online music store beat bricks and morter retailers Borders, Sam Goody and Tower to take the #7 spot. 
London's Victoria and Albert Museum is using podcasts to provide audio-visual guides that can be downloaded and played on iPods, MP3 players or desktop computers.
Parliant has announced an upgrade to BIAS Peak Express 5 as part of its award-winning PhoneValet Podcast bundle, a product extension of PhoneValet Message Center 3.0. 
Apple has cut long-term supply deals with Hynix, Intel, Micron, Samsung Electronics and Toshiba to secure the supply of NAND flash memory through 2010.
James Brown, watch out! Tim Bourquin is on track to be the hardest working man in show business.
DLO has introduced the Action Jacket for 5G iPod.
Digital Lifestyle Outfitters (DLO) is shipping the PodFolio Deluxe Leather Case for fifth-generation iPods. PodFolio is made from hand-stitched leather, features a padded protective flip cover, a leather-covered sewn-in belt clip and play-through access that allows you to control their video iPod without removing it from the case.
The Electronic Frontier Foundation, an organization that works to protect civil liberties in the online world, is pressing Sony to recall all Sony CDs that included rootkit technology, stop stating that the software "is not malicious and does not compromise security," and compensate consumers with compromised computers. 
Apple is planning to release its first entry-level iBook laptops with Intel processors next January at Macworld Expo in San Francisco, reports Apple blog Think Secret. 
Santa is keeping up with the times. This year, he's even got a podcast!
Diversified Multimedia's Video Vault for the Apple Video iPodlets users convert home videos, DVDs and tapes for viewing on video-capable iPods.
Nine Systems has added podcasting to its Stream OS rich media management toolset. The company’s new podcasting solution will let consumers download audio and video podcasts for immediate playback on portable devices, including Apple Computer’s iPod, other MP3 players and desktop media players.
Bridge Ratings has released projections for user growth in the podcast universe, based on interviews with radio listeners in ten national markets*.
iPodder, a popular indie podcast client, has changed its name to Juice.
The Disneyland Resort in southern California has premiered the 
Klegg Electronics has unveiled the world's smallest color MP3 player. The miniature MP3 is approximately 1.8 inches in length, 1.6 inches in width and 1/2 inch thick.
HandBrake is an open-source, multiplatform, multithreaded DVD to MPEG-4 ripper/converter. It can be used to convert DVDs and other videos for playing on video iPods. 
Fruitcast is a new podcast directory site that republishes podcasts with advertisements, and shares the revenue with podcasters. Podcasters sign up for a Fruitcast, distribute the feed URL that they provide, and the service will automatically insert advertisements into the MP3 file that listeners download. 
Commentary: Elle Webb
King Kong has been compressed to fit on the new video iPods. 
Celebrities.com has introduced a new service that promises to put Paris Hilton, Avril Lavigne, Lindsay Lohan and Tommy Lee in the palm of your hand. 
NPR Ombudsman Jeffrey Dvorkin has penned an interesting essay that discusses the craft of using sound in radio journalism.
IBM has announced an internal initiative for employees to easily publish podcasts.
Adult magazine publishers Playboy and Penthouse are looking for ways to capitalize on popularity of Apple's video iPods. 
According to pioneer video podcaster Andrew Baron, creator of the popular 
Independent cartoon producer Fred Seibert has launched Channel Frederator, the world's first cartoon video podcast. Released weekly, the episodes contain several short form original and vintage cartoons, submitted by producers from around the world, packaged into 10 to 15 minute episodes by the Channel Frederator programming team. 
Sun Microsystems has announced its intent to deliver on-demand network services that will convert documents from proprietary formats, such as Microsoft Office, into Open Document Format (ODF).
Sony Media Software has announced PSP Media Manager, software for the PC that lets users move content from their personal computer to their PSP (PlayStation Portable) system. Podcasts and video podcasts can be downloaded and encoded for PSP playback. 
