iPod radio kit deemed 'illegal' in UK

A gadget that lets you send songs from Apple's iPod music player to an FM radio has fallen foul of UK laws. I've been looking at the iPod recently, but this time around decided to get a minidisc because of the recording features. One really cool thing about an add-on for the iPod - the iTrip - is that you attach it to the iPod, select a spare radio frequency in your home stereo or car, and then the iPod will broadcast to that frequency - no messy wires or anything.

A N Micro, the UK distributor of the iTrip, said use of the device was prohibited under the Wireless Telegraphy Act of 1949.

The act forbids the use of radio equipment without a license or an exemption.

The iTrip transmits at very low power on an FM frequency and so in theory could interfere with broadcasts from a radio station.

The $35 cylindrical device, made by Griffin Technology in the US, has won critical acclaim from fans of Apple's digital music player.

There are no restrictions on its use in the US, where people can use it to listen to songs stored on the iPod on a home or car stereo.