Apple Opening the iPod - Slighty

A CNet article reports on Apple's recent participation with 3rd party companies to boost the number of add-ons for the iPod.

Examples of recent add-ons include the Altec Lansing inMotion Speakers and the Belkin Microphone and Media Reader.

Apple, however, remains secretive, not sharing the final design of the 3rd Generation iPod with Belkin until late in the development process.

Apple didn't let Belkin see the new iPods. Instead, the company got just enough electrical information to understand the connector. When it came time to test the products, they usually gave the products to Apple, which tested them and then gave Belkin feedback.

Strange as it may be, this is reportedly an improvement in pre-release access. In the past, companies would have to wait until product release. Belkin appears to be taking the new responsibility seriously and "has been particularly careful not to spill any of Apple's secrets" according to the article.