Macworld rumors update; podcasting bits

Just what do people think MWSF 2006 will bring? Apple Matters shares a few of its thoughts on the biggest rumors on the end of 2005:

Intel-based Macs: still the number one rumor for MWSF 2006. You just can shake it off. But it's still up in the air on which Mac will get the Intel chip first.

PVR: Apple might let loose a TiVo-like device rather than a competitor for the Window Media Center. This rumor is said to be a favorite of Think Secret

New shuffle: Some thinks that the shuffle should have a screen and perhaps come in different colors. Definitely a 2GB can't be in the offing since this would step on the 2GB nano.

I consider podcasting as a way to free the listener from the cartel composed of regulators and music labels. But it would seem this cartel is going into indie music, as well. It is in the guise of the Association of Independent Music who would require podcasters to pay licensing fees for the use of the music of its acts. Why would anybody pay a fee when there are music out there that you don't have to pay anything to play in your podcast. These talents are at par, if not better, with what AIM has to offer.

Research reveals that 85% of US residents 18-24 years of age prefer to listen to iPods than to listen to radio. This is based on study conducted between July and November 2005. It also revealed that 55% are willing to pay for music downloads and 56% listen to music online or on a digital music player rather than on any other source.

Lastly, is 128 AAC better than 128 MP3?