This week’s roundup of iOS accessories includes Bluetooth speakers, more Bluetooth speakers, and then, to top it off, some more Bluetooth speakers.
The $40 Lyrix Jive is a water-resistant Bluetooth speaker that you can bring into the shower with you—the better to get caught up on the morning’s NPR news, or, if you’re a serious work junkie, taking speakerphone calls while you wash your nethers.
The $50 iRecorder iPhone Speaker is, as the vendor says, a retro tape recorder that’s actually a working Bluetooth speaker for your iPhone. Even the buttons (play, rewind, fast forward, and pause) work. The iRecorder fits iPhone 4 and 5 models, and runs on power provided through a Micro-USB cable or using three AA batteries.
The $80 Favi Boomerang is a Bluetooth-enabled, “surround sound” speaker system that pairs with your iPad to create a mini home theater. A smaller version designed for the iPhone costs $60. Both devices are now available for pre-order, with shipping expected in mid-December.
The $300 Nova speaker system is Bluetooth-enabled, with “Performance-tuned 2.5-inch drivers and 1.25-inch tweeters for a richer listening experience.” The system provides 40 watts of power and a passive radiator for deeper bass response.
The $300 iLoud is a portable, iOS-compatible speaker and amp designed for musicians: It has an iRig circuit built right in so that, say, a guitar player can plug in, fire up the Amplitube app on their iPhone, and start playing and recording. You can even connect a mic for a mini PA. And with 40 watts of power, the rocking moments will really rock.
The $40 AluPen Twist is an aluminum stylus for your iOS device that, with a twist, becomes a ballpoint pen with a replaceable ink cartridge for use on your paper writing pad. The stylus will ship later this month.
The $500 Libratone Loop is a wireless speaker that uses Apple’s AirPlay technology. The speaker is designed to look great mounted on your wall or sitting on a shelf. The wool cover, available in grey, black, or red, can be changed quickly, ensuring that the speaker is always looking its best.
The $25 ReVolt 12W + 12W is a dual-USB-port car charger that lets you charge both your iPhone and your iPad while on the road—and to do so, Scosche promises, at the fastest speeds possible.
The $150, battery-powered Air Raid Bluetooth Speaker offers up to 10 hours of playback at maximum volume—but lasts longer if you decide the 88-decibel maximum (roughly equivalent to a power mower) isn’t necessary for the occasion. The speaker has a stainless-steel faceplate, and is pitched as being both drop proof and water resistant.
The £179 U See Tablet Magnifier is an iPad stand that lets you use your tablet like a magnifying glass. Just place the iPad on the stand, turn on the camera, and you can begin reading fine print and small details in documents on your desk. The device includes reading lights and elastic bands to hold your tablet in place.
The $150 M5 Bluetooth Speaker has a black, aluminum finish; can be used as a speakerphone in conjunction with your iOS device; and offers up to eight hours of wireless music playback.
The $100 iPad Air Folio Keyboard is a Bluetooth keyboard case for Apple’s latest tablet that features backlit keys. The Folio and its $100 cousin, the iPad Air Keyboard Cover, are available for pre-order; both devices should ship soon.
Author: Joel Mathis
Joel Mathis is a regular contributor to Macworld and TechHive. He lives in Philadelphia with his wife and young son.