In-flight iPod connectivity closer to reality

iPod users will soon be able to use their portable media players in conjunction with seat-back display systems on Continental, United, Delta, Air France, Emirates, and KLM flights.

The innovation is thanks to a new agreement between entertainment giant Apple and the six airlines, which will allow passengers to connect and charge their iPods while watching their stored video content on the in-flight seat-back displays.

Fliers will be able to plug in their players from mid-2007, with more airlines lined up for similar connectivity in the near future.

"There is no better traveling companion than an iPod, and now travelers can power their iPods during flight and even watch their iPod movies and TV shows on their seat back displays," said Greg Joswiak, Vice-President of Worldwide iPod Product Marketing at Apple.

"We're excited to work with Air France, Continental, Delta, Emirates, KLM, and United to offer iPod users an even better in-flight experience."

More than 70 million iPods have been sold worldwide, and over 1.5 billion songs have been purchased and downloaded from Apple's online iTunes Store.

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