GameSpot has run a piece identifying the iPod as a possible contender for the next handheld gaming platform.

According to the article, Apple's iTunes division is quietly (very quietly) recruiting for C/C++ developers with gaming backgrounds.

Probably this is just another rumor. However, Apple reversed their position on video for the iPod, so who knows? It's fine with me, as long as they don't screw up the iPod's audio and video functionality in the process.  

Normally I don't go for the geeky "look what I can do" iPod hacks such as using it to run Linux. However, here's one that might actually be useful and worth the time of setting up.

Using sound files which mimic the sounds of a touch-tone telephone, your can dial a telephone just by selecting a file (or playlist) on your iPod.

For instructions which make it simple enough to be useful, see the MacMerc.com.

Note that the instructions say that external iPod speakers are necessary, but I was able to do it fine with just my normal headphones. (I haven't tried it with earbuds.)  

hrmpf.com reports that last week Apple filed an application for a patent for a system of music selection based on tempo. This would be a very cool feature. Theoretically, it could be used in conjunction with the upcoming Nike+iPod product to allow automatic music selection based on the pace one at which the user is exercising.