When the iPod was introduced back in 2001 (yes 9 years ago!), it didn't take long for accessory manfacturers to start giving us ways of listening to our favorite tunes via better headphones and speaker systems. Once the iPod came out with a standard dock connector, this market exploded. iHome has been making iPod compatible speakers and alarm clocks for years. However, this time they've taken it up a notch. They actually gone beyond just using the dock connector as a means of filling the room with music. Instead they've integrated the iPhone/iPod touch with their hardware via a FREELY downloadable App called iHome+Sleep. This App enhances the features of the iA5 and goes way beyond just a simple alarm clock. See my more detailed review of the iHome+Sleep App here. Rather than tell you about this device, I'd rather show you in this video:
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MXejpJyqFNM
The Bottom Line
While I love the features of the iA5 and iHome+Sleep combination, there are a couple of things (OK, one big thing) that may make this a deal breaker for some. The first thing is that this unit doesn't have an AM/FM radio. Granted I love waking up to my own tunes, however I also love waking up to my favorite radio station. Also since the App only allows you to wake up to a buzzer or your iPod content, you're not likely to even be able to wake to an internet radio station such as those found in Pandora. So if radio is important to you, this device will be a disappointment. Otherwise, the iA5 is a nice addition to the iHome product line and I look forward to more App enhanced products.
You can get the iA5 here for about $89. The iHome+Sleep App is a FREE download here.
Thanks for the excellent overview Terry! But I have to admit, not having AM/FM capability really “broke” the deal for me. I like having quick, easy access to news in the event of an emergency.
It looks like the video is gone. Can you fix the post?
Disregard above post. Issue was on my end.