It looks as if Apple may believe that the next best thing to happen to the iPod is to have it talk. You may find that your next iPod has the ability to read you menu contents and the names of songs and bands. Apple has already patented the technology, and it looks to move users’ reliance away from viewing the iPod’s screen.

The next iPod will probably need something to differentiate itself in the market, considering Microsoft plans to release a music player by Christmas. The processing power required to convert the titles of tracks into speech will actually come from a PC as tracks are uploaded to the iPod. To differentiate itself even more, Apple’s patent includes the ability to use celebrities to bring voice to your iPod.

Considering Apple loves to release U2 versions of its iPod, I suppose it wouldn’t be surprising to see another U2 iPod released with the next generation of devices that has the voice of Bono. The possible voice talent available for iPods could be endless. Perhaps the iPod could be programmed to nag at you in the tone of your spouse or significant other if you use the music player too long.

http://www.geek.com/news/geeknews/2006Jul/bma20060712037320.htm