According to Gearlog, at least two companies are working on earphones designed for the iPod shuffle. Like the earphones that come with the music player, these planned products feature playback controls right on the earphone cords.

A few days ago, I wrote that the shuffle’s lack of playback controls represents an opportunity for third-parties. Looks like at least Scosche is turning it into a gold mine; the most expensive of their rumored earphones will cost $100, definitely higher than the $80 iPod shuffle. The only information gathered on V-Moda’s development plans point to a Q2 2009 release.

Any further thoughts on Apple’s hardware DRM? I just realized that Apple would’ve avoided all the uproar if they bundled a pair of earphones that plugs into a cord with playback controls on them, which plugs into the iPod itself.

No doubt, this setup is a bit messier, but I think giving customers a bit of versatility regarding their headphone or earphone choice is more important than marketing-oriented design.

(image from Gearlog)

Post from: The Gadget Blog