News from a couple days ago says that HP will be dropping their sales of the iPod.
Read about it: HP Says It Will Stop Selling iPods.
Although this particular situation was not forecasted, it is not surprising. Apple never has been very generous when it stretches itself out to share its product lines with other companies. In other words, in the end, they either pull out of the deal, or they give the cooperating company the short end of the stick.
Unfortunately, this may be spawned by a “we don’t need them” kind of attitude; ironically enough, in this instance, that is probably true.
Great news. At the close of the fiscal quarter, Apple has found its profits $70 million in excess of its estimates, sitting at $320 million.
This is Apple’s best quarter. Ever. Read about it: Apple Tops Its Quarterly Earnings Record.
One thing that is very encouraging about this is to see that the iPod is not the hero that saved the ailing team here. The iPod had a significant share, as expected, but it was just a team player on Apple’s championship team.
Other key players: Mac OS X 10.4 and Mac sales. Sure, we like it when the team keeps winning, even when these players were on the bench, but now that they’re back in the game–and exercising a killer instinct–the game is so sweet to see.
Mac OS X 10.4 was the best-selling software release in the company’s history; Mac sales experienced a 35% increase over last year; iPod sales had a “record quarter” for the ninth time in a row. When all the key players score triple-doubles, the fans just go wild.
And the timing couldn’t be more perfect, since Apple’s sales my go into slight hibernation as the world awaits the first x86-based Mac. But that’s okay–Apple is ready.
Luxpro has developed probably the most audacious rip-off of an Apple product to date, even putting Microsoft to shame.
Please read: Luxpro Corp. rips off iPod shuffle.
If the description doesn’t get the point across, a picture speaks a thousand words. The Super Shuffle appears practically identical to the iPod Shuffle, right down to the white ear buds, with the only difference being the product name and an extra switch on the back. What’s more, the Super Shuffle actually outperforms the iPod Shuffle in features.
Certainly imitation is the highest form of flattery, but there must be some execs at Apple that are fuming over this one.
I would never bother purchasing this iPod accessory–but purely because my lifestyle doesn’t necessitate it. Fact is, if your lifestyle would benefit from this accessory, it’s the coolest thing!
Check it out at ExtremeiPod: New case means surf’s up for iPod.
I do remember when we last visited the ocean I was paranoid about taking the iPod with me as I strolled down the beach side in the shallow water, fearful of dropping it, and even when I was laying in the sand, worrying about getting sand in my precious gadget’s electronic parts. With an accessory like this, those worries are gone!
