Using near field communication—or RFID, which isn't in the current crop of iPhones—coupled with a cute, onscreen UI (like a combination lock), Apple's patent describes a future in which iPhone users open their front doors and even pay for their next iPhone with a 3-digit pin. Many have already dubbed it the "iKey."

I'm not sure that I could stand waiting at Walgreen's while the guy in front of me attempted to wield the iPhone's accelerometers with enough dexterity to purchase some antacid and the latest edition of Sport Fishing. But given that a good chunk of the world is already benefiting from phone-based RFID shopping, there's little question that the basic premise is a good one. [Patent (PDF) and Telegraph and ElectricPig via Slashdot]

Formerly a $500 to $3500 proposition, Apple has combined development memberships on all their platforms into one $100/year offer. For developers, that means developing for OS X is really no more expensive than developing for the iPhone. For fanboys, that means you can download the next beta OS without the need of a torrent. [Apple via 9to5Mac and Macworld]

Of course, the $148 estimate is just for an 8GB Touch. When you get into 64GB territory, you're looking at a grand savings of $348! I don't know exactly where these signs are posted, but that's probably for the best—it'd take no time at all to whip up my generous offer of $51.01. [The High Definite via The Daily What]

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The idea is that you shove that mouse-looking thing under your pillow and wait for your alarm to go off. When it does, everything will get a bit shaky while a speaker blares whatever sound or music you've selected. In theory, this should wake up even the deepest sleeper, but I'm more entertained about the thought that it could move beds enough to make your neighbors believe that you're having the most precisely timed sex ever. Every single morning.

iLuv Announces the Premium iMM178 Vibe Plus, A Dual Alarm Clock with Speaker Integrated Bed Shaker for iPhone & iPod Users

iLuv releases premium new Apple iPhone-certified version of bedside alarm clock that will shake the deepest of sleepers awake

PORT WASHINGTON, NY – (March 1, 2010) – iLuv Creative Technology, the leader in innovative solutions dedicated to developing unique accessories for Apple's iPhone and iPod announces the iMM178 Vibe Plus, the next generation model from their Shake & Awake alarm clock dock series originally launched last year with the iMM153 . This Apple iPhone-certified new improved version features a sleek and slim black body design with a bed shaker that includes a speaker and volume control. iPhone and iPod users now have ten ways to wake up to their favorite music and this dock provides a 7 day – 5 day – 2 day alarm option for waking at a set time everyday, weekdays only or weekends. The Vibe Plus will be available now for the suggested retail of $89.99 at www.i-luv.com and other retailers.

This Apple iPhone-certified alarm clock with a premium bed shaker for iPhone and iPod includes a multitude of features and functions.

Key Features:
• Bed shaker vibrates a bed or a pillow to wake up the heaviest of sleepers and includes a 3-level volume control
• Built-in speakers featuring jAura acoustic speaker technology allow you to hear your music with depth and clarity
• Dual Alarm function for 7-5-2 everyday, weekday or weekends wake options • Time-sync function that synchronizes time for your iPhone & iPod • Large easy to read digital display with 10 level LCD dimmer control • 2 Way volume control – from the main unit or from the shaker
• Integrated universal dock for your iPod plays and charges your iPhone and iPod
Digital Dual Alarm Clock Capabilities:
• Dual alarm clock function allows a couple to wake to separate alarms • 10-Way to wake up including to iPod, FM radio, buzzer, bed shaker, iPod + bed
shaker, FM radio + bed shaker, buzzer + bed shaker
Radio Functions:
• FM stereo • PLL digital tuning technology improves the radio signal clarity
• Programmable presets for 10 radio stations

*Compatible with iPhone 3GS, iPhone 3G, iPhone, iPod Touch 2nd generation, iPod Touch, iPod Nano 1st – 5th generation, iPod Classic, iPod with video, iPod 4th generation, iPod mini

[iLuv]

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V-MODA PRESENTS REMIX REMOTE HEADPHONES: SOPHISTICATED SOUND AND DESIGN OPTIMIZED FOR HIGH-PERFORMANCE, ACTIVE LIFESTYLES

Series Offers Music Enthusiasts Unparalleled Audio, Style and Reinforced Durability

HOLLYWOOD (Feb. 22, 2010) – V-MODA, the music lifestyle brand and manufacturer of award-winning headphones, today announced Remix Remote, the latest fashion-forward in-ear headphone featuring unrivaled audio performance partnered with an integrated three-button remote. Created by V-MODA's meticulous acoustics and engineering team, Remix Remote is a completely redesigned version of the company's original in-ear headphones, created to enhance the listening experience and dynamics of today's music while capitalizing on the capabilities of the iPhone, iPod and Mac notebooks.

Designed for ultimate durability, unparalleled audio clarity and absolute affordability, Remix Remote is a testament to V-MODA's passionate dedication to the development of sound and precise construction for even the most discerning listener. From the remastered driver to the redesigned soft silicone fittings developed to enhance ergonomic and audio performance, consumers will enjoy a unique and distinct listening experience with the perfect balance of punchy bass and high-definition audio clarity. The remote and high fidelity microphone allows hands-free access for users to answer calls and control their music library. The all-metal construction, Kevlar®-reinforced cables and commitment to quality is backed by a two-year premium warranty and V-MODA's "No Questions Asked" 50 percent off lifetime headphone replacement guarantee.

"Great in-ear headphones are a result of a fanatical passion for the skill, art and love of music. We've spent years researching and fine-tuning our headphones alongside world-renowned musicians and DJs, and Remix Remote is our best product yet in terms of pure sound, rock solid durability improvements, ergonomics, and value," said Val Kolton, V-MODA CEO and founder, independent DJ and producer. "In our modern lifestyle we listen to our music on headphones more than at home, in the car or at clubs. It is my goal to recreate the sound and sensations of an epic sound system anywhere and anytime, fused with the fashionable design V-MODA is known for."

The V-MODA Remix Remote features:

UNPARALLELED CONTROL AND SOUND
A discreet, in-line three-button remote allows the user to control the music playback, volume, VoiceOver or Voice Control functions with ease. A newly tuned 9mm V-MASQUE neodymium dynamic driver creates the absolute in clarity and the perfect balance in sound, while the BEAT-PORT air flow system delivers a high-definition soundstage, invoking the sense of a live music experience. V-MODA's revered BLISS (Bass Level Isolating Soft Silicone) noise-isolating technology further reduces outside noise and enables deep punchy bass for the ultimate audio experience.

ERGONOMIC STYLE AND DESIGN
Featuring a minimalist and ergonomic design, Remix Remote's solid yet lightweight all-metal construction makes a powerful statement. Its durable features are developed for fashion-conscious, on-the-go lifestyles. The earbuds feature newly designed medical-grade soft silicone fittings with a new shape offering a more comfortable and secure fit while also further enhancing V-MODA's signature soundscape with improved clarity. The detachable sport earhooks feature patent-pending Active Flex technology, allowing the headphones to adjust independently to each ear regardless of the earhook's position.

ROCK SOLID DURABILITY
After years of diligent engineering, Remix Remote is stronger than many headphones sold within the same price range. Each component was dissected and analyzed to create a high-quality headphone that could withstand the extended use by V-MODA's dedicated listeners. With the added function and dual functionality of today's headphones as headsets, it is paramount that the cable and plug are as precisely engineered as the ear buds. Special attention was given to a custom cable construction comprised of a strong Kevlar core to relieve tension and a uniquely braided copper material that is specially designed to flex during use. The durable, PVC-free and tactically pleasing cable is designed to reduce microphonics. The gold-plated plug and stainless steel core feature a 45-degree extended strain relief to withstand stress.

COMPATIBILITY
Remix Remote provides an easy-to-use integrated three-button remote control that works with iPhone 3GS, the second generation iPod touch, fourth and fifth generation iPod nano, third generation iPod shuffle, the 120GB and 160GB iPod classic, MacBook (unibody) and MacBook Pro (unibody).

PRICING AND AVAILABILITY
Starting today, the Remix Remote will be available through Apple's retail stores as well as at Shop.v-moda.com for a retail price of $99.99. In early March, Remix Remote headphones will be available through the Apple Online Store (www.apple.com) and later in the year at additional retail channels. To see more information and videos on how V-MODA is dedicated to quality and durability, visit v-moda.com/quality.

ABOUT V-MODA
V-MODA is the music lifestyle brand distinguished by its fashion-forward design, superior sound, and unparalleled quality. Since the debut of its world-renowned product collection, V-MODA has created a world that defines an authentic music culture.

V-MODA is the result of fusing professional DJ and CEO Val Kolton's passion for high fidelity and progressive design. Together with the world's most influential DJs and musicians, V-MODA is defining the remix revolution.

While Apple has gotten in trouble in the past for spontaneous iPod Touch combustion, Newburyport Daily News Online commenter "jos" offered some valuable insight into this particularly incident:

The iPod did not just explode. It was broken so a kid took the entire thing apart and was rubbing wires against the battery, which became very hot, then exploded. This is not a faulty product that caused a danger to people. This was bored kids, in a classroom with a substitute all week, who found a dangerous way to entertain themselves.

So let me get this straight: either your iPod's a deadly time bomb just waiting to go boom at a moment's notice, or kids do dumb things when they're bored?

I feel so much safer already. [Newburyport Daily News via Cult of Mac]

So you're ready to upgrade from 8-tracks to 8000 MP3s, but you want to keep your sound system matching your lava lamp and your bean bag chair. Unplggd's, advice, in short: find a working 8-track and cram a tape adapter all up in that piece.

It's sort of like That 70's Show—you get the novelty of the retro aesthetic without forfeiting the modern familiarities you've grown to love. Somehow I just compared your MP3 collection to Ashton Kutcher. [Unplggd]

Josh and Ting first met at an Apple store, and could think of no place better to affirm their eternal devotion than between rows of MacBook. Apple didn't sanction the event, which took place at the flagship Fifth Avenue location in New York, so they took the good ol' fashioned flash mob route. As Josh said to Entertainment Weekly:

"I used to joke that the Apple Store is my church because I am not religious, and I loved everything Apple... Ting then came up with the idea of having the wedding there."

Let's hope their love has a better warranty than my iPhone. [EW via Cult of Mac]