Apple has launched a range of “new” iPods as expected, however, it seems like all the rumours didn’t come true, despite what various iPod accessory manufacturers managed to leak ahead of today’s launch event.
The iPod Nano got the most significant update and in this case the rumour about a built in camera was indeed true. However, those expecting to find a high resolution camera will be disappointed, as the iPod Nano was only gifted with a VGA resolution camera (that’s 640×480 pixels), although it seems like Apple is focusing on video rather than stills and the iPod Nano shoots 30fps of video in H.264 with AAC audio.
Other improvements that the iPod Nano was blessed with includes a slightly larger screen at 2.2-inches (compared to 2.0-inches of the previous generation) with a resolution of 376×240 pixels. One very unexpected feature was the addition of a built in FM radio, something people have been begging Apple to add for a long time. Apple was also kind enough to throw in a Live Pause function for the FM radio which is a nice touch.
Other new features include a built pedometer, VoiceOver support and thanks to the built in microphone for the camera, support for voice memos. There’s also a range of new colours, up to 24h of audio playback and five hours of video playback time. The 8GB model will set you back $149/€139 while the 16GB goes for $179/€169, so once again, Europe get’s a poor deal from Apple.
The iPod Touch on the other hand didn’t quite seem to deliver on people’s expectations, as it was not gifted with a camera. The only new feature that was mentioned was OpenGL ES 2.0 support which is hinting at a possible iPhone 3GS CPU upgrade in the new iPod Touch. Apple did add a more capacitous model at 64GB, but at $399/€369 it’s priced out most people’s reach. The next step down is the 32GB model for $299/€279 and while both of these are supplied with Apple’s Earphones with Remote and Mic, the cheaper 8GB which retails for an affordable $199/€189, only comes with the standard headphones.
Finally Apple also upgraded the iPod Classic with a larger 160GB hard drive (over the previous models 120GB drive) at the same price point and added a range of new colour options for the iPod shuffle alongside a limited edition stainless steel model.
