Tag Archives: ipod

DSstyle’s Superior Soft Pouch

pouch bannerI have, yet again, another review from Distinctive Styles. The Superior Soft Pouch is a simple pouch meant to be used with the iPhone 3G/3GS, however, it will work with all Apple iPod models. The pouch is an incredibly simple product but provides a big punch for what it is mean to do – protect your device.

The pouch is made from a durable material called flannelet, a material similar to that of felt. The fabric is incredibly soft and will do no harm to the device, nonetheless, it will attract dust and pet hair. Other than that, the rest of the product is spot on. It will protect your device 360°, from the face of the device to the back of the device. On the front of the pouch is Distinctive Styles‘ logo (a simple and elegant addition that I personally find rather appealing). The Superior Soft Pouch also includes a lanyard so that you can go right ahead and hang it from your neck if you choose to do so. For an incredibly low price tag of $8.26, I recommend going ahead and picking one up for yourself. They also come in your choice of six different colors: black, blue, gray, yellow, and green (all colors of which have a pastel-like tone).

**If you are interested in entering this giveaway to win the blue Superior Soft Pouch, simply watch the video below and follow the instructions on how to enter.

A Note From the Editors of TechGeec: Though all products and services reviewed by TechGeec are “final,” many companies now make changes to their offerings after publication of our reviews, which may or may not be reflected above.

DSstyle’s Twill Series

Twill_header_002DSstye’s Twill series case for the iPhone 3G and 3GS as well as the iPod Touch 2G and 3G is and amazing case. It is available in both black and white leather. This case has a unique feature to it, though. The leather is interwoven giving it a carbon fiber look and feel. Not only does this provide for aesthetics, but it also strengthens the case making your device that much more protected.

With all of the great features of the Twill series, there is also one fault that I have found and that is that with the iPod Touch version, the case goes above the top of the device (as seen in the video review below). Although this is not a significant problem, it can pose a problem when one would want to press the power/sleep button. Other than that one fault, the rest of the case is virtually flawless.

In order to use the Twill with your device, you simply slide your device into the case from the top. The inside of the case is lined with a felt-like fabric making sure not to scratch your device, and surprisingly enough, despite how easy it is to insert the device, it will not fall out of the case on it’s own. There is also a cutout on the front of the case for the home button, a cutout on the bottom the case exposing the headphone jack and 30-pin dock connector, as well as a final cutout on the left hand side exposing the volume rockers.

Overall, for a case that only costs $28.09 $31.42, I highly reccomend for you to go ahead and take a quick look at it over on DSstyle’s website. Even if the Twill series doesn’t appeal to you, check out some of their other cases, I’m sure you’ll find one that you like.

A Note From the Editors of TechGeec: Though all products and services reviewed by TechGeec are “final,” many companies now make changes to their offerings after publication of our reviews, which may or may not be reflected above.

DSstyles Metallico Series

I am thrilled to announce that DSstyle’s and I have made a business arrangement where they will be sending me products throughout the rest of 2009 for me to review. So far I have received four products from them, the Twill series case, two carrying pouches (most likely a giveaway), and the Metallico series case which this review is for.Metalllico_black_001

The Metallico series is an incredibly simple case made from 100% plastic and has a retail price of $20.69. Granted, it is a bit pricey for a piece of plastic, however, the design is superb. The case is designed for the iPod Touch 2G/3G and the iPhone 3G/3GS. The back of the case mimicks the back of the iDevice completely, including the Apple logo, device name, allotted GB, a generic serial number, as well as the other symbols that can be found. Unfortunately, the case only comes has the option of displaying “16GB” so if you happen to have a different size device, you’re out of luck.

The case is extraordinarily simple. It is a snap on case so it is very easy to get on and off and it only covers the back of the device (that means that the chrome bezel is exposed). This has upsides as well as downsides. For one, it adds virtually no weight and/or bulk and it keeps the slim design of the device. On the other hand, it offers absolutely no protection to the chrome bezel or the front face of the device. Again, this adds the looks and feel of a slim case, but it lacks in protection. I have to admit that I have dropped my iPod several times while using the case and it has fallen on the front face once. I was lucky enough to have no damage done to the device, but it is very plausible for damage to be done if the device falls face down. Also, on the inside of the case, there is nothing separating the back of the device from the inside of the case. As previously mentioned, the case is 100% plastic and although it is very smooth, it still has to potential to scratch the back of the device.

Overall I’d say that if you want a smooth, sleek, and comfortable case, but not concerned with price to protection ratio, go for it. It’s a fantastic case and I personally use it day in and day out (for about the past four weeks). The only thing that would make this case that much more appealing, would be if the price was lowered to about $10-$15.



While the mobile gambling industry keeps growing, it doesn’t seem to have an effect on the Rushmore group who released plenty of new slots this month and even had 2 progressive jackpot winners this month.

PwnageTool 3.1.3 Released for iPhone 3GS and iPod Touch 2G

Quote (via Dev-Team Blog):

Here are some details on our latest version of PwnageTool for Mac OS X that adds support for the 3.1 release of the iPhone software for iPhone 3GS and iPod Touch 2G.

SUMMARY:

The iPhone 3GS is now supported in PwnageTool 3.1.3, assuming the phone was pwned at 3.0 or 3.0.1 – PwnageTool does not support the 3GS out of the box. If your iPhone 3GS has 3.1 preinstalled and is not Pwned then there is no tested jailbreak solution at the moment.

The iPod 2G is now supported in PwnageTool 3.1.3, assuming the iPod 2G was pwned at 3.0 or 3.0.1 – PwnageTool does not support the iPod 2G with 3.1 software out of the box.

DETAILS:

  1. GOLDEN RULE: If you are using a iPhone 3G or iPhone 3G(S) with ultrasn0w and rely on ultrasn0w to obtain cellular service then you should only update your device with an .ipsw that is made with the new PwnageTool. There are no second chances with this. You need to remember that PwnageTool will provide an upgrade path to newer versions of the iPhone software in the future.
  2. Please read all parts of this post before downloading and using these tools.
  3. Read items 1, 2 and 3 again and again.
  4. At the bottom of this post are the bittorrent files for the 3.1 capable version of PwnageTool.
  5. PwnageTool will work for the iPhone 3GS assuming you have already Pwned it at 3.0 or 3.0.1
  6. PwnageTool will work for the iPod touch 2G assuming you have already Pwned it at 3.0 or 3.0.1
  7. PwnageTool WILL work for Original iPhone (1st Generation), the iPhone 3G and iPhone 3G(S) and the iPod touch (1st Generation and 2nd Generation) but NOT the iPod touch 3rd generation.
  8. For 3G and 3G(S) users who are Pwned, PwnageTool is your key to updating in the future, just remember to never install an update directly from Apple, always use an .ipsw that has been created with PwnageTool.
  9. There is no Windows version of PwnageTool it is a Mac OS X tool only, we are not developing a Windows version of PwnageTool.

What’s a Baseband?

The ‘baseband’ is the generic nickname given to the internal components of the iPhone that handle the phone calls and Internet access. This ‘baseband’ is a tiny and unique independent computer system that runs inside your iPhone, it is separate to the main system that handles the applications (such as email and google maps) and it talks to the main part of the phone over an internal communications network.

Think of it like a cable modem or other peripheral that is attached to your home PC that needs occasional updates. When a software update is released and presented to you within iTunes the baseband is sometimes updated (to fix bugs or add new features).

The 3.1 update for the iPhone 3G and 3GS contains such an update, so running the vanilla updater straight away with iTunes will reprogram and update the baseband.

WHICH DEVICE DO I HAVE?

Read the description to identify your device, once you have correctly identified your device follow the specific instructions for that device as listed below.

SIM Free/SP Unlocked/Factory Unlocked iPhone 3G(S)

This applies if you bought your iPhone 3G(S) for $$$$$$$. This model of iPhone 3G(S) doesn’t have an Service Provider lock (aka factory unlocked) and you are able to put any SIM card into the phone and get service. Your phone is already unlocked so you do not need to worry about baseband updates, if your device was Pwned at 3.0 or 3.0.1 then you can use PwnageTool to create an ipsw and then use this to update and jailbreak your phone.

SIM Free/SP Unlocked/Factory Unlocked iPhone 3G

This applies if you bought your iPhone 3G for $$$$$$$. This model of iPhone 3G doesn’t have an Service Provider lock (aka factory unlocked) and you are able to put any SIM card into the phone and get service. Your phone is already unlocked so you do not need to worry about baseband updates,  if your device was Pwned at 3.0 or 3.0.1 then you can use PwnageTool to create a 3.1.ipsw and then use this to with iTunes to upgrade and jailbreak your phone.

iPhone 2G (1st Generation)

Use PwnageTool to do the magic and then restore with iTunes using your newly created .ipsw ‘nuff said, you don’t need to worry about anything, the baseband will be unlocked, the phone jailbroken.

iPod Touch 1G (Original iPod Touch)

Use PwnageTool to create a firmware image and restore with that .ipsw using iTunes.

iPod Touch 2G

Use PwnageTool to create a firmware image and restore with that .ipsw using iTunes, this will only work if you are already Pwned at 3.0 or 3.1. If you are at 3.1, downgrade to 3.0 and use redsn0w to Pwn 3.0 then you have an upgrade path using PwnageTool.

iPod Touch 3G

At this time PwnageTool does not support this device.

Official Bittorrent Releases -

Unofficial Mirrors

The following links are unofficial download mirrors, you download these at your own risk, we accept no responsibility if your computer explodes or if it becomes part of a NASA attacking botnet or even worse if your hands fall off mid-way during the use of these files. We do not check these links or archives and we accept no responsibility with regard to the validity of the files, or with other content these links provide or with the content that is on the linked site.  Always check the published SHA1 sums. We would prefer that you downloaded the official bittorrent release that is linked above, but you are welcome to try these if you really must. Mirror owners should email direct links only to blog@iphone-dev.org , please don’t place mirrors in the comments as they will be deleted.

iZel: Fold It. Place It. View It.

iZel Banner

I am sure that many of you have thought about purchasing a stand for a number of your devices but you just weren’t sure which one was right for you. Let me tell you that the iZel is the best multimedia device stand on the market today. It’s safe, sturdy, and relatively inexpensive. For a price of $24.95 you pick one up over at MyiZel.com.

One of the greatest features of the iZel is that it is portable. It is capable of unfolding into a flat 0.3 inch piece of plastic and rubber which can easily fit inside many pockets, purses, bags, or pouches. Another great feature is that the iZel can hold it’s shape due to two small plastic pegs which fit into two small holes. If you wish to have the iZel‘s “legs” closer together (preferably for a portrait view) insert the pegs into the inner-most holes. For the “legs” wider (for a landscape view) simply insert the pegs into the outer-most holes. The stand can also support a variety of devices such as the iPhone, iPod, iPod Touch, Zune, BlackBerry, Amazon Kindle, Nintendo DS, PSP, and many other devices.

The iZel can be used for a variety of occasions. Some examples may be on an airplane (watching videos on your multimedia device), at a table while eating (watching videos while eating), on a small table/desk to display a slide show of pictures. Personally, I mostly use it to display my iPod Touch 2G and my LG Voyager on my desk while charging them.

You can guarantee that your device will be safe while using the stand, too. Although it is made out of plastic, all of it’s edges are coated with a flexible elastomer so that it will not scratch your device while also provide a stable, slip resistant support. The iZel also features a ratcheted adjustable support that can be easily extended or retracted to modify the viewing angle of the device’s screen by a range of up to 30°.

If you travel a lot, readily have people visiting, or enjoy watching videos on your multimedia device, it is highly recommended to check out the iZel over at MyiZel.com for a price of $24.95.

iFrogz Earpollution ThrowBax

ThrowBax

TechGeec.com was given the opportunity to review another iFrogz product. The Earpollution ThrowBax headphones give you more bang for your buck. They provide you with bumping deep rich bass and smooth stereo sound. They come in a variety of colors consisting of red, lime green, blue, pink/white, as well as orange. You can’t get much better headphones than the Earpollution ThrowBax heaphones which retail for $29.99 USD.

Here are some of the main features of the ThrowBax:

  • Driver Unit: 44mm
  • Impedance: 32 ohms
  • Sensitivity: 108db+/-3db
  • Frequency Response: 5Hz to 20 KHz
  • Cord Length: 1.2M (roughly 4 feet)
  • Plug: 3.5mm

These headphones offer magnificently painted metallic coated speaker cups along with metal side rails so that you may have the ability to adjust the size. The ThrowBax offer designated left and right channels with the cord only coming out of the left channel. This is a huge advantage because having only one cord to worry about lessens the chance of the cord becoming tangled. The headphones also have padded leather speaker cups to add extra comfort. The speaker cups are large enough to fit around one’s ears so that the is more noise isolation providing for better sound quality. The inside of the speaker cups feature an elegant Earpollution design. The padded leather headband features an embroidered Earpollution logo with matching side stitching. The color of the embroidery is based upon the color of the speaker cups.

As I said previously, these are the best headphones that you can get for the price. What many people do not realize is that headphones provide much better noise isolation as well as sound quality than you will ever get with a pair of ear buds. These headphones are definitely durable as they rarely show scratches and/or scuffs. The volume is even fantastic. Truthfully, these headphones are louder than the built-in iPod Touch speakers and the “old school” style of the ThrowBax is superb.

There are a few minor downsides, however. The main one is that the headband seems to have a bit less padding than I would like it to. If you happen to wear these headphones for possibly an hour or more, they may start to feel discomfortable on your head. Also, because the plug is larger than most, you may have a hard time using it with a device that has a case on it. The last flaw is that I find that the plug can come out about half way with the slightest tug. When this happens, audio will only be expelled through one of the channels (most likely the left).

Overall, if you are in the market for fairly inexpensive quality headphones, go for the iFrogz Earpollution ThrowBax. They provide amazing sound quality and style. Scroll down for some HD photos and scroll all the way down if you would like to see a video review of the headphones.

Images provided by GOPOD
EarpollutionThrowBax_centerUntitled


iTunes 9: What’s New in iTunes?

iTunes LP

The best thing to happen to fandom.

The visual experience of the record album returns with iTunes LP. Download select albums and experience a beautifully designed, interactive world right in your iTunes library on a Mac or PC — many are created by the artists. While you listen to your favorite songs, you can dive into animated lyrics and liner notes, watch performance videos, view artist and band photos, and enjoy other bonus materials. And become an even bigger fan.

iTunes LP

Home Sharing

A better way to share.

iTunes makes it easier to share music, movies, TV shows, and more. With Home Sharing, you can browse the iTunes libraries of up to five authorized computers in your house, import what you like, and automatically add new purchases made on any of the computers to your own library.

Home Sharing


The Redesigned iTunes Store

Check out the new venue.

The world’s #1 music store is even better. With a beautiful redesign and refined navigation, the new iTunes Store makes it easy to explore songs, movies, TV shows, and more.


iTunes Extras

Now featuring: Special features.

When you buy select movies from the iTunes Store, you won’t get just a movie. You’ll get iTunes Extras — a world of special features you can experience right in your iTunes library. Watch interviews and trailers, view photos, and more on your Mac or PC.

iTunes Extras

Genius Mixes

Genius Mixes

Perfect mixes come automatically.

Meet Genius Mixes. This new feature searches your iTunes library, finds songs that go great together, and creates multiple mixes you’ll love. All automatically. These mixes are like channels programmed entirely with your music. You may discover songs you never knew you had — and rediscover forgotten favorites.


Improved Syncing

A simpler way to sync.

iTunes brings new, more flexible ways to sync your media from your computer to your iPhone or iPod. And it’s easier to organize all the apps on your iPhone or iPod touch, because now you can do it right in iTunes, right from your computer. Shop the App Store on your computer, iPhone, or iPod touch. Then go to your iTunes library to arrange (and rearrange) your apps and add (or delete) Home screens. iTunes automatically syncs your new Home screens with your iPhone or iPod touch.


Many Other Improvements

Refinements that rock.

iTunes brings you even better ways to manage and share everything in your library. You can make your Smart Playlists even smarter. You can save iTunes Store items you want to purchase later in a new wish list. You can buy ringtones of your favorite songs directly from the iTunes Store on your iPhone and assign a specific song to a contact. And if you’re an avid social networker, it’s easy to tout your favorite music, movies, and TV shows on Facebook and Twitter right from the iTunes Store.

iPod Nano 5th Generation

overviewhero120090909

The iPod Nano has received an update! It now comes in nine different colors, all with a glossy finish, reduced prices ($149 US for 8GB; $179 for 16GB), a new, integrated video camera (capable of taking still images as well as video) with effects, microphone, 2.2 inch screen, FM-Radio with tagging and live pause, Nike+iPod Support, as well as built-in speakers.

radio_pause20090909fitness_hero20090909features_hero20090909

New Jersey Apple Store Robbed

Quote (via ABC.com)

MARLTON, N.J. – September 2, 2009 (WPVI) — Police are searching for the five bandits who hit the Apple Store in Marlton, New Jersey.

It happened shortly after 2:00 a.m. at the Promenade Shopping Center on Route 73.

The thieves broke into the store through the plate glass window, and then scooped up merchandise like a holiday shopping spree.

Security video showed the fast-paced robbery.

It’s after closing and the security guard is seen making his rounds in the store.

But, at 2:05 a.m., thieves hit the store’s plate glass door with a blunt object. Like professionals, they bring it shattering down with one strike.

Then, with precision timing, the five men enter the store and clean house like there’s no tomorrow. Each one moved in a different direction, lifting Macbook Pros which can run upwards of $3,000.

In all, they took 23 Macbook Pros, 14 iPhones, and nine iPod Touches.

It all happened in 31 seconds flat.

Later, the security guard is seen running in, after the thieves had practically picked the place clean leaving only the price tags behind.

The thieves seemed savvy enough to know how to play the guard, making a gesture like they were in possession of a handgun.

The cameras showed that two of the suspects were wearing black sweatshirts and a third was wearing a red vest with a light colored long sleeve shirt underneath.

Anyone with information is being asked to call police at 856-983-1118 or the confidential tip line at 856-988-4699.

iSkin touch Duo Premium Silicone Protector Case

touchduo_features_05

iSkin’s touch Duo case for the iPod Touch 2G packs a big punch considering that it provides style, functionality, as well as protection. The case retails for a price of $34.99 (a bit pricey for a silicone case) and is available in Diablo (red/black), Sonic (blue/black), Ozone (frosted clear/black), as well as NightHawk (expresso/black). The touch Duo comes with a few free extras including a glare-free and fingerprint resistant screen protector, a ViSOR, as well as an alcohol based cleaning “towel” (the type you get at restaurants) so you can clean the screen before applying the screen protector.
touchduo_features_28
touchduo_features_16The case provides a thick, textured silicone around the edges and corners to provide greater protection along with the ability to hold on the case easier and it feels great. The touch Duo also contributes an integrated docking port protector to protect your 30-pin dock connector from everyday hazards. The screen protector is a nice add on considering it literally covers the screen. Many other screen protectors cover the entire front face of the device while this does not. It’s a good idea that it doesn’t because many times the average screen protectors can interfere with other cases or accessories.

The added ViSOR guard is a good idea, but truthfully, it can get annoying sometimes. It’s meant to be used while the device is not in use (i.e. in your pocket, sitting on a table, etc.) so that the screen will not get damaged. However, you cannot use the device while it is on so you must have to constantly remove it which can be a bit of a pain.
touchduo_features_11
One last fantastic feature that iSkin has pioneered is that the touch Duo has Microban® built-in antimicrobial protection to inhibit the growth of odor and stain causing bacteria. Overall, I would say that if your looking for a silicone case providing style, functionality, as well as protection, you should definitely go for this case (if you’re not bothered by the price).