It is a yearly tradition by now to see Steve Jobs take the stage around September and announce new music products from Apple. And just like the past three years, a completely new iPod nano has appeared. Perhaps you heard all of the following before from the so many leaks that took place before the event. But if you’re interested in learning more, keep reading.
New iPod nano. The leaked, tall nano turned out to be true after all! This new nano returns to its elongated look prior to the third-gen nanos, and goes back to an all-aluminum body (no more mirrored back!). Of course, the biggest change besides its shape is the new screen, which features a wider aspect-ratio, but sure isn’t full widescreen. A couple of new features such as the Genius playlist-maker, and shake-shuffle make this is the best nano to date. The 8GB and 16GB models go for $149 and $199, respectively.
New iPod touch. Even though the new touch looks the same at a quick glance, it does have many new additions. First, you’ll notice that the body is slightly more curved than usual, which gives you a better grip on it. Then there are the big “little” additions: volume control buttons on the side, a built-in speaker, and GPS-like capability when you’re on Wi-Fi — all taking a hint from the iPhone. Something that so far has been noted as exclusive for this model is the new Nike+ app, because of the connectivity enhancements for Nike+ sensor done specifically for this model. Besides that, the new touch comes with the new 2.1 firmware. The 8GB, 16GB, and 32GB models cost $229, $299, and $399, respectively.
New iTunes. iTunes 8 was also released today as a free download. The biggest new features that have been added include the new Genius-supported sidebar, HD TV show downloads (NBC’s back!), a grid view, and a new visualizer.
“New” iPod shuffle and classic. The 1GB and 2GB shuffles are still there — albeit in new colors — priced at $49 and $69, respectively. The classic, however, got cut down into a single model: 120GB in either black or silver, going for $249.
by Galley
09 Sep 2008 at 17:14
In iTunes 8, browsing in the grid view by Artist is actually using the Album Artist field. No more separate entries for tracks with guest artists!
Browsing by Album by Title now separates similarly-titled albums such as “Greatest Hits”. WooHoo!
by Frank
10 Sep 2008 at 08:49
Is anyone else being hypnotized by the new visualizer? I think it’s having that unintended effect on me