Apple today announced the release of iPhone software version 1.1.3, a free update for the device which adds several new features including Maps with location, the ability to send SMS messages to multiple recipients, and the ability to customize the home screen. "iPhone doesn't stand still-we're making it better and better all the time," said Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO. "We've delighted millions of users with this revolutionary and magical product and it's great to share these improvements with them." The location feature of Maps uses both cellular and Wi-Fi triangulation technology to provide an approximate location to the application, which also sports a new interface. The iPhone's home screen now allows users to move and rearrange application icons, and also allows the user to create multiple home screens, which can be filled with Web Clips, direct links to web-based applications and web pages that appear on the iPhone's home screen alongside the standard applications. The update also adds support for chapters, subtitles, and alternate languages for videos, as well as support for the display of lyrics when listening to music. iPhone software version 1.1.3 is available now through the update feature in iTunes.

Marware has introduced new C.E.O. cases for the iPhone and iPod nano (with video), as well as its Sidewinder case for iPod nano. The C.E.O. Flip Vue for iPhone is a flip-open leather case that features unique vertical and horizontal stand capability, a removable 360-degree rotating ratchet clip, included screen protector film and microfiber cleaning cloth, and access to all ports and controls. The C.E.O. Cover Vue is also a flip-open leather case, featuring both a fold-back flap for screen protection, and a second, fold-under flap that offers protection for the iPhone's Dock Connector. Other features include access to all controls and ports, vertical and horizontal stand capability, a removable 360-degree rotating ratchet clip, and included screen protector film and microfiber cleaning cloth. The C.E.O. Flip Vue and C.E.O. Cover Vue are available in brown or black leather, and sell for $30 each.

Incase has introduced its new Slider Case for the iPhone and iPod touch. The company’s first hard case, the Slider offers internal rubber guardrails for impact and scratch-resistance and external cutouts for access to all ports and controls including the headphone jack, hold switch, Dock Connector, camera lens, speaker and microphone. In addition, the case’s bottom portion slides away to accommodate charging in a Dock. The Incase Slider Case for iPhone and iPod touch comes in high-gloss black or white, and will be available in February for $35.

Tunewear has introduced its Prie Ambassador SideHook for iPod touch, a new leather case with an integrated hook that doubles as a stand for watching video. In addition to the hook/stand, the Ambassador SideHook also features a card slot on the back, access to all ports and controls, and included Tunefilm clear protective film to cover the touch’s face and mirrored back. The Tunewear Prie Ambassador SideHook for iPod touch is available in five color variations, including two in black leather as well as sienna, gold or silver models, and sells for $50.

Vestalife has introduced its Ladybug iPod speaker system, aimed at younger consumers. The ladybug features a spherical design, and speaker "wings" that fold out and down to reveal the integrated iPod dock and to provide stereo imaging. A center channel subwoofer faces rearward; other features include LED volume level indicators, a metallic soft-touch finish, an auxiliary input, a full-function remote control, a carrying bag, a USB for for syncing, AV out for video output, and the ability to run off AC or battery (4 AA) power. It will be available in the first quarter, and will come in either silver or red for $110; limited edition Ladybug systems with Element Skateboard designs will sell for $125. "We at Vestalife are thrilled by the attention the Ladybug has received so far," said Vestalife Co-founder and Chief Creative Officer Myk Lum. "Younger consumers want a product that breaks free from traditional limitations of the speaker dock genre, and that actually has a personality they can identify with. At the same time, they are as demanding as audiophiles. The Ladybug fills this important gap in the marketplace, and we look forward to exposing this product and our entire company at MacWorld to a younger yet essential consumer audience."

In July, the Copyright Board of Canada approved a private copying levy on iPods and removable memory storage cards, that could have resulted in tariffs of up to $75 per device, depending on storage capacity. That levy has effectively been struck down by Canada’s Federal Court of Appeal, which took only 24 hours to decide that the Copyright Board had no legal authority to impose the levy. Copyright lawyer Howard Knopf, who represented the Retail Council of Canada as well as Apple Canada et. al, said that “The applicants were awarded their costs. The reasons are very brief. The Court was very decisive.” The ruling was also welcomed by Retail Council of Canada president Diane J. Brisebois. “This has been a very long battle, but a necessary one,” said Brisebois in a prepared statement. “Retailers have fought against these levies since their creation in 1997 because it taxes a product based on what a consumer possibly could use it for.” [via MyAppleMenu]

Zoom Technologies has announced its new iHiFi Model 4355 Bluetooth transmitter for iPod and iPhone. The 4355 connects to the iPod or iPhone via Dock Connector, and features Bluetooth 1.2 technology, with support for both the A2DP and AVRCP profiles. Other features include two LED status lights, and volume output control buttons on the unit. The Zoom iHiFi Model 4355 is available by itself for $40, or as part of the $90 Model 4385 bundle that includes both the 4355 iPod transmitter and a pair of the company's Model 4380 Bluetooth headphones/headset. Both the standalone transmitter and bundle are available now.

RhinoSkin has introduced its iPod classic Aluminum HardCase for both 80GB and 160GB models. The HardCase features a 100-percent aluminum back paired with a transparent, heat- and shatter-resistant polycarbonate front cover, offers access to the Click Wheel, hold switch, Dock Connector port, and headphone jack while in the case, comes with a lanyard and the RhinoClip removable post and belt clip system, and is also compatible with fifth-generation iPods. “We are happy to be able to provide unique and durable cases for multiple generations of iPod devices,” noted Kelley Wheeler, marketing manager for RhinoSkin. “Electronics manufacturers are constantly delivering new items to the consumer and we take pride in being able to protect people’s technological investments.” The RhinoSkin iPod classic Aluminum HardCase is available now and sells for $35.

VibeVault has introduced its VibeVault aluminum case for the iPod touch. The VibeVault for iPod touch is made from anodized 6061-T6 aluminum, which offers a high strength to weight ratio, and features an included full-face screen protector, internal o-ring snuggers to ensure a proper fit, rounded outside corners for improved in-pocket feel, and access to all controls and ports. The VibeVault for iPod touch is available now and sells for $45.

Renowned optics manufacturer Carl Zeiss AG plans to introduce the Cinemizer, a new movie viewing accessory for the iPod, next week at Macworld Expo in San Francisco, CA. According to the company, the Cinemizer, which features Carl Zeiss optics and a design by FROG, "allows users to watch their favorite videos on the iPod display at eye level and virtually in cinema quality." Further details of the product have yet to be announced; however, you can expect more information and a hands-on look at the device next week.