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Gloolabs Readies A Java-Based WiFi Audio Device
An anonymous reader writes "A new Java powered home entertainment audio device design promises to simplify sharing computer music files among computers and stereos in connected homes. Gloolabs's Gloo is Java middleware that puts an iPod-like interface on music files it "discovers" around the network. Gloo, which will be licensed to multiple device makers, is available now on one device that runs embedded Linux, and Gloolabs is currently bootstrapping a Gloo developer community. Gloolabs is currently taking orders for the $250 MacSense HomePod, the first Gloo-based device, which will ship in January 2004. A limited quantity of the $350 Developer Edition is available now."
Although I like the idea from a technical side and they open source approach they are adopting, I wonder if it is really that hard to make a new device that's not a blatant copy of the iPod design.
I live in a dense apartment block, and while I only own a PDA currently, it has 802.11, and I've used it to pick up over 17 (17!!) open access points within range of my apartment. Most of these people have extensive mp3 collections which look highly illegal (though since I don't own a computer and I've never talked to them, I don't know if they have the new Strokes album through iTunes or what...). One guy has like the complete works of Jimmi Hendrix; it's awesome.
Anyway. I could buy one of these things, hook it up to my stereo, and basically use all of my neighbor's music for free. This would be great for college campuses too!!!
And since it's wireless the RIAA can't do shit to stop me. Bwuahahaah! I don't know how to run Linux but it looks like with this I won't have to, and I can get all the free music I want. Awesome.
Ah, but that's the beauty of HomePod: Open firmware! I'm sure it won't be long before you can download a patch that supports your Codec of Choice. So don't let that dollar get too far away.
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