While Apple is extremely tight-lipped about its iPod software, most reports hold the iPod 5G utilizes a Pixo OS 2.1 operating system along with PortalPlayer's Digital Media Platform. The PortalPlayer platform is definitely an all-in-one "system over a chip" that delivers a few of the hardware we already looked at, including the two ARM7TDMI microprocessor cores. The developer package includes audio-decoder support, customizable firmware (with support for DRM-system development) and software-development tools. Ipod and iphone user-interface is reportedly in line with the Pixo Toolbox software that was available when Apple was creating the device (Pixo is currently part of Sun Microsystems).
As well as the user-interface and operating-system software, the iPod's video coding and decoding happens at the software level. The Broadcom video chip we looked over during the last section handles processing on the hardware level but has a corresponding software application to run it codec.
In terms of operating-system requirements, iPod video is compatible with Mac OS X v10.3.9 or later, Windows 2000 (with Service Pack 4 or later) and Or windows 7 Home and Professional (with Service Pack 2 or later).
Where iPod software starts getting interesting is within the third-party software and "hacks" which have sprung up in response to iPod's popularity. iPod third-party software includes programs which use or expand current iPod functions without changing what sort of device should really work. Including downloadable iPod games, programs that convert a number of DVDs to iPod-friendly video files over night, programs that convert PDA data and PowerPoint presentations to iPod-compatible files and software that permits you to create your own text-based iPod games.
iPod hacks are programs written to provide iPods new (non-Apple-intended) functionality. You know how we discussed items you can't do with an iPod, like sync via FireWire? Well, it is possible to hack an iPod to sync via FireWire. Unless you're programmer, "hacking an iPod" ways you download a chunk of code that alters your iPod's functionality at the software level. A high level programmer, this means developing that code. iPod hackers are publishing all sorts of programs that affect the way an iPod works -- a few of the software program is free, plus some from it is perfect for purchase. Some currently available hacks let you:
- Make a music player use Linux machines and run Linux applications
- Remove volume caps (iPods purchased from Europe cap the amount at 100 decibels; uncapped iPods can reach more than 115 decibels.)
- Turn your iPod right into a universal remote
- Attach a hard disk in your iPod to improve the storage capacity
- Change your iPod's font and graphics
- Watch movies on your own iPod in full-screen mode
- Plug your iPod into any computer (even without iTunes) and listen to music from the hard disk
- Transfer photos to iPod without needing iTunes
- Replace iTunes completely as the iPod's main jukebox
- Use a music player with a Windows 98 machine
