Harry Potter Digital Audiobooks and Collector’s Edition iPod
Harry Potter series author J.K. Rowling decided to throw in with Apple as she picked the iTunes online music store to debut the Harry Potter audiobook series for download. Available immediately are all of the current Harry Potter books, which can be downloaded individually for prices ranging from $32.95 to $49.95 or as a complete set for $249.The Harry Potter Collector’s Edition iPod, meanwhile, is available for a limited time for an extra charge ($299) as part of a bundle deal for those who want to buy the complete downloadable audiobook set. This particular iPod has 20GB of memory to store thousands of songs, audiobooks and photos. Etched on the back is the Hogwarts Crest, the symbol of the school of magic which Harry Potter attends.
iPod Auto Integration
Available already for vehicles from a number of major car manufacturers, Apple added Acura, Audi, Honda and Volkswagen to those who support directly integration of an iPod into a car’s stereo system. This integration usually includes direct digital stereo from the player through the car’s speakers and some type of built-in remote control in something like the steering wheel to do things like change songs, playlists and volume.Honda and Acura, as part of their iPod integration, will debut a text-to-speech feature which allows owners to search for playlists, artist and album names by using their voice. This integration will occur across most of their lineups beginning later this year.
Beginning in November meanwhile, Audi will feature iPod integration in the A3, A4 and TT models and Volkswagen will offer iPod integration for the majority of their 2006 US lineup.
With these four car brands, direct iPod auto integration is now available from 15 car companies around the world.
