Boomwave Products today began shipping its Bearaphim, Diablo, and Diablo Spectrum cases for Apple's current-generation iPod nano and iPod classic. Boomwave's new Bearaphim cases aim to protect third-generation iPod nanos in the form of a bear with ears and an extended paw. Diablo Spectrum cases for current-generation iPod nanos appear as 'devilish' enclosures complete with pointed ears and a tail. Boomwave Diablo cases for iPod classes resemble Diablo Spectrum cases, but offer different graphical effects and include an embedded ring in the back for easy carrying.

PDO today announced the availability of its Flipp leather case for the iPod classic and Touch. The Flipp for the Classic features black leather, and is rigidly constructed, offering full protection, even to the edges and bottom. Cutouts allow quick access to the wheel and dock connector, while the screen is protected by built-in clear plastic. A sturdy metal belt-clip is securely fastened to each model, and the front flap is held shut by magnets. Users can purchase the Flipp for either 80GB or 160GB models, and both are selling for $30.

Should a gamer want to relax a bit more, they can switch to a creative mode which encourages artistic thinking. The game is a 34MB download that costs $4.99; it is only compatible with the iPod classic, iPod video, and third-generation iPod nano.

Academy recruits for the New York City Police Department will receive an iPod loaded with training material. Since many of the recruits use mass transit in their daily travels to school, officials decided it would be easier to provide materials in digital format, rather than requiring students to carry around masses of books on the crowded subway system. Reuters says that recruits will be able to see content from subjects like New York State Penal Law, warrants, ethics, and community policing. The announcement said that the information that will be stored on the iPods will not contain any security sensitive information, so that if the iPods are lost by students, the NYPDs operations will not be compromised.

XtremeMac today debuted its new Verona iPod case for Apple's iPod touch, iPod classic, and current-generation iPod nano. The new designer leather case aims to blend fashion with functionality, protection, and style. Verona cases include different types and styles of leather enclosures, all hand-crafted from genuine leather with a soft interior lining. The Verona Flip cases for iPod touch and iPod classic are folio style cases with an integrated leather wrapped belt clip. The cases come in various colors and designs, ranging in price from $25-$30. All Verona cases are available for pre-order via XtremeMac's website, and are expected to ship in the coming weeks.

Apple today released a software update for its newly release iPod classic and "3G" iPod nano as well as the 5G iPods. iPod Software 1.2.3 resolves a problem with the iPod (5th generation) where songs and other content do not appear after updating to software version 1.2.2. According to Apple, the iPod v1.03 update for the iPod nano/classic offers "bug fixes;" however, reports indicate that it resolves general issues with games affecting song play counts, the iPod nano's clock, problems with Cover Flow and a spinning hard drive issue (on the Classic). The 58.2MB available via iTunes.

USBFever.com today began shipping its new iPod 2-in-1 Remote + Radio, offering compatibility with Apple's recently released third-generation iPod nano as well as its iPod classic and iPod touch. The device boasts high sound quality, and enables users to switch between Radio or iPod video/photo/music playback modes with a single click. The iPod 2-in-1 Remote + Radio is priced at $26, and ships in either black or white to match Apple's iPod classic players.

The Icewear is made of high density ribbed silicone which provides a sticky tactile feel, and is designed to absorb shocks and bumps from accidental drops. The case offers complete access to the iPod's controls and ports, and features the company's clear Tunefilm to protect the screen and scrollwheel. Tuneware says that the Icewear for the iPod touch and Nano are currently available from the company's web site, with the Icewear for the iPod classic shipping during the first week of December. Prices for the Icewear range from $20 to $30, depending on which model is purchased.

Contour Design recently unveiled the iSee for the third generation iPod nano and the iPod touch, a clear plastic case that offers additional dock connector protection.

GEAR4 has unveiled its LeatherJacket Flip case (site not updated) for Apple's latest generation iPod nano, and simultaneously announced that its BlueEye Bluetooth phone accessory is compatible with the latest iPod models. The LeatherJacket Flip is a premium leather case for Apple's new iPod nano featuring a brushed suede interior with "debossed" patterning. A 'Flip-Clip' closure covers the click-wheel when not in use, and provides full easy access when playing tracks. The case is available in black and pink for $32, and is due to ship at November's end.