Apple?s latest iPod offering, or 3rd Generation iPod, is better in every way to its predecessors except in battery life. Apple claims that the battery life on the 3G iPod is around 8 hours, compared to the 10-12 hours quoted on earlier versions of the iPod. In addition, with Apple?s 3G iPod?s, 3rd party developers can now create impressive add on peripherals to make the iPod even better.

I got a chance to test Belkin?s battery pack, which claims to add an extra 15-20 hours of battery time to your iPod. The pack runs on 4 AA batteries (which are included), and neatly sticks to the back of your iPod.

What?s great about this add on is that it runs on batteries, so there?s no need to go looking for an outlet to charge your iPod, simply bring along a few sets of AA batteries and your iPod will help get you through those long train rides or those boring flights.

Design

The Battery Pack is neatly designed to go hand in hand with your iPod. Its sleek white appearance adds to the style of the iPod. Furthermore, the decision to use two suction cups as the support mechanisms helps keep your iPod clean and scratch free (Belkin includes two extra suction cups should you lose or damage one of them).

The unit includes an on/off switch, so you can keep the pack connected to the iPod even when it?s not being used. In addition, a small button along the top allows you to check whether the batteries still have a charge to them.

Connection

The Battery Pack connects through Apple?s new universal connector at the bottom of the iPod and slides on nicely to the back of the unit, securing itself to the iPod via two suction cups. It?s obvious that if you opt to use the battery back, you cannot use any of your iPod cases, however, cases that grant you access to the iPods connection port, will allow you to connect the battery pack as well ? you?ll just need two hands to hold everything.

Lifespan

Belkin?s claim of up to 20 hours of extra battery life depends on the batteries you use. On average, you should get between 12-15 hours of battery life with the pack, with the possibility of almost 20 hours if you purchase higher end batteries and keep the unit stored at room temperature.

Final Word

Apple?s decision to shorten the battery life makes this peripheral a must have. Having the peace of mind of knowing that your iPod will always function on just a set of batteries will make your long trips more enjoyable. Do yourself a favour, go out and buy one today, even if you have no plans to use it, you?ll be thanking yourself for when your iPod battery decides to malfunction.

Pros:
- Adds much needed battery life to iPod
- Easy to setup
- Sleek design

Cons:
- Makes the iPod significantly heavier

Visit the Belkin web site for more information.

5/5






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