What exactly is AirPlay, and what can I use it with?

AirPlay is a technology from apple which is a few years old. Basically it allows the transmission of sound, videos or pictures from your Apple hardware to an AirPlay compatible device. The following devices can be used in the transmission of AirPlay:

• iPod Touch (2nd gen or later)
• iPhone
• iPad (1st and 2nd gen)
• Computer with iTunes (version 4.1 and later)
• Apple TV (1st and 2nd gen)
• AirPort Express

These devices can be used to receive AirPlay

• AirPlay compatible speakers
• Apple TV
• Speakers connected to AirPort Express
• Certain Bluetooth devices in the future
• Electronic Picture frames
• AirPlay compatible receivers
• AirPlay compatible amplifiers. 

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What devices are our there right now?

There are quite a few devices out right now. When AirPlay first came out there were just a few but Apple decided to grant licences to 3rd party manufacturers so they could use the AirPlay technology and make their device AirPlay compatible. A result of which meant a large increase in the amount of AirPlay products being made. Unfortunately because the manufacturers need to pay Apple a fee to make the speakers AirPlay compatible, some devices are quire expensive. 

Products can be as cheap as $100 and as expensive as $1300. Although a general rule to remember is "you get what you pay for". If you really love music and want to get the best quality speakers then obviously you should invest in a good set. If you are a casual music listener then maybe a cheaper set designed for bedroom use is better. 

Zeppelin Air

This is the Zeppelin Air, one of the best products on the market:

If you're interested in learning more please visit AirPlay Speakers or see our new blog on AirPlay Speakers.