Creative launches portable iPod shuffle speaker dock

Creative on Friday unveiled its first speaker system made just for the second-generation iPod shuffle. The TravelSound i50 mounts the Apple player on top of a one-piece, 1.4-watt stereo speaker system that includes a keychain attachment for clipping the speaker to a backpack or a bag. To help guard the shuffle in its exposed position, the i50 includes a plastic cover that protects the player from scratches and rain while exposing the controls. A mini-USB port also turns the speakers into an impromptu dock for synchronizing and charging the small iPod directly from the speaker system.

Power when traveling is supplied by a lithium-ion battery that powers the speakers for about 15 hours. Creative has so far chosen to release the i50 first in Japan and will ship there by mid-September for the equivalent of $69. No international releases have been announced but are expected in the near future. [via epiZENter]