[real-eyes] Fw: Talking IPOD in Our Future?
- From: "Reginald George" <sgeorge@xxxxxxxxx>
- To: <real-eyes@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
- Date: Tue, 11 Jul 2006 22:42:40 -0500
Had to pass this one on from the accessible devices list. .
Apple Rumored To Be Working on Talking iPod (NewsFactor)
Published Mon, 10 Jul 2006 23:15:20 GMT
NewsFactor - It seems ages ago that Apple first introduced a snazzy
digital-music player with an innovative click-wheel and counterpart online
music store.
A few generations of the device later, the company added video and left many
wondering what might be next.
Well, according to news spreading around the blogosphere today, the next big
thing will be an iPod that talks. The discussion was sparked by an analysis
of a patent application filed by Apple for an upcoming generation of the
iPod.
By most accounts, a talking iPod would give Apple a much-needed infusion of
"wow factor," especially as competitors rally to introduce their own
next-generation
music players that have built-in wireless and other advanced capabilities.
The new talking-iPod technology probably would not signal an end to the
click-wheel, which would continue to operate normally. The only difference
would
be that users would get audible announcements about song titles, performers,
or albums in queue.
According to the patent filing, Apple is billing the technology as a safety
feature that will eliminate the need for eye-to-iPod contact in settings,
such
as driving a car or walking across a street, that require full attention.
In addition, the patent indicates that the feature will offer the ability to
change the characteristics of the iPod voice, including its gender and
intonation
qualities.
It might be difficult to predict, without confirmation from Apple, when the
talking iPod will hit store shelves, said Mukul Krishna, an analyst
specializing
in consumer electronics at research firm Frost & Sullivan.
But Krishna indicated he wouldn't be surprised if it was Apple's next big
development. "It makes sense and gives a further oomph to the iPod," he
said.
To subscribe or to leave the list, or to set other subscription options, go to
www.freelists.org/list/real-eyes
Other related posts:
- » [real-eyes] Fw: Talking IPOD in Our Future?
