Brand: MacNews

Mac OS X was recently named a finalist for PC Magazine’s Technical Excellence Award, Desktop Software. Apple’s next-generation operating system was edged out by Microsoft’s Windows XP for the top honor.

Mediafour is currently developing XPod, an application that will bring Windows compatibility to Apple’s iPod. As first noted by MacNN, the software will work with Windows Me, 98, 95, NT 4.0, 2000 and XP, and obviously requires a PC with a FireWire port. The company expects to have a beta version out soon, and is currently taking email address of interested parties. Apple CEO Steve Jobs has previously said the company is considering adding Windows compatibility to the device.

The market for portable digital music devices, such as Apple’s iPod, is expected to grow from 2.4 million in 2000 to more than 9 million in 2005, according to Cahners In-Stat Group. The report notes that SONICblue’s Rio line of audio devices holds the top spot worldwide, followed by Creative Labs (Nomad), and D-Link.

Apple has updated its Hot Deals page with new offers from J&R and Outpost.com, which are both offering special discounts on software and peripherals.

Disney Interactive today announced the release of two new interactive learning titles based on popular Playhouse Disney television programs: Rolie Polie Olie: The Search for Spot and Stanley Tiger Tales. The two titles are created for preschoolers, their parents and caregivers. Activities on both CD-ROMs allow children to examine life, social and family issues, household chores and family relationships.