Zizzle Iz

I'm not sure if the Iz fullfilled itself as the must-have toy over the holidays, but I'm sure it's just the beginning of a growing trend of toy accessories for the iPod. By itself, the Iz is a music maker that spits out different beats, rhythm and leads controlled by the belly, ears and that thing on his head. It will also flash colors on his nose to the beat. But plug him into an iPod and the Iz will act as an external speaker and react to the music that's playing, though I suspect sound quality wouldn't be that great. This is where I can forsee the huge annoyance factor coming into play. Apparently the Iz will sprinkle his own commentary and noises into your tunes. Huh? It's like watching a movie with a friend who's constantly leaning over and whispering commentary in your ear.

Preschoolers might like the whimsical appearance of the Iz to play their own music and watch him dance to the beats, but the iPod part? I think it'd just end up as that annoying toy that won't shut up.

Available at Amazon.