Year: 2002

Griffin Technology has released its 4-port USB-Audio hub, which was designed for compatibility with USB audio recording and playback. The hub can function un-powered or through an included AC power adapter. In addition, Griffin has released its ClearChoice iPod Connection Kit, which includes a 7-inch mini-jack male to RCA Female adaptor and a 6-foot mini-jack to male RCA cable — everything needed to connect the iPod to a home stereo system. The USB-Audio Hub sells for US$39, while the ClearChoice iPod Connection Kit costs $14.99.

NCsoft Corporation has announced Lineage 2: The Chaotic Chronicle, a sequel to its popular massively multiplayer online role-playing game. Lineage 2 will incorporate a new, 3D world six times the size of the current Lineage game world and a new in-game quest system. The game is slated to be released in 2003; it’s unclear whether a Mac OS X version will be released. Lineage: The Blood Pledge is currently in public beta testing for Mac OS X.

SPSS Inc. has announced SPSS 11.0 for Mac OS X, a new version of its data analysis software for analysts, statisticians and researchers. SPSS 11.0 features a new linear mixed models procedure that delivers more accurate results and enhanced data management. SPSS 11.0 for Mac OS X is scheduled to be released in the third quarter of 2002. Pricing is set at US$999 for commercial customers and $599 for academic users.

TheGrove, a new shopping mall in Los Angeles near Farmer’s Market opens today,will host an Apple retail store, as noted by MacNN. Apple will bejoined by retailers such as Nordstrom, FAO Schwarz, Banana Republic, Barnes& Noble, Victoria’s Secret, Hawk Skate, and NIKEgoddess. Apple’s retail page has no information on the Los Angeles location as of yet.

Capitol Mac, the Richmond, Virginia-based Apple Specialist that yesterday announced it would be shutting its doors after 12 years will now remain open, Scott Grenz, the store’s General Manager, told MacMinute. Late yesterday, an investor emerged who will be acquiring the store from current owner Joe Butler. Capitol Mac will still offer a reduced price sale tomorrow to appease customers who were alerted of the closing and ensuing liquidation sale yesterday.