Internet blogs and the media alike have been up in arms over Apple’s alleged “DRM” chip in the third-generation iPod shuffle. A mysterious authentication chip is apparently responsible for supporting the player’s new headphone-integrated playback controls and blocks out the use of any third-party headphones.

The matter drew considerable attention after a review from iLounge reported that Apple was selling its loyal customers short by installing an authentication chip in the pint-sized media players.

Apple, in turn, has denied that any DRM authentication mechanism is involved. The company also says that a variety of manufacturers are expected to release control-integrated headphones compatible with the new shuffle, as well as adapters to accompany standard headphones.