How To Pimp Out Your iPod

Get a cool case. Not only will it look good, but it will protect your iPod. A simple sleeve will prevent scratches, but investing in a hard case will protect the iPod from serious damage if it’s dropped or stepped on.

Want your iPod to stand out in a crowd? With tweezers and a steady hand, glue some crystals or sparkling stones in a pattern on the surface. Avoid the buttons and screen.

Turn your iPod into an organizer by downloading an inexpensive enhancement program, such as iGadget from the company iPodSoft. With it, your iPod can view driving directions, text files, and weather reports. It also lets you transfer songs from your iPod to your computer, and view data from Outlook Express like contacts, appointments, and emails.

Upgrade your headphones. Just because the original earbuds match your iPod doesn’t mean they’re the best. If you shop around online, or at any large electronics store, you’ll find headphones that sound amazing and match your iPod.

Buy an iPod dock so you can listen to your iPod at home without your headphones. Just place your iPod in the dock’s slot and turn it on. From there, you can control the iPod as usual, but the sound comes through the speakers. Bonus — most docks will charge your iPod while it’s docked.

Invest in a battery pack that will extend the life of your iPod battery by at least 10 hours.

If your iPod supports the “TV out” function, buy an AV cable (available from Apple or an electronics store) that will enable it to play videos on your TV.