New, old Touches would coexist

As with last year, new and old versions of the iPod touch may coexist following a September product announcement, according to Kaufman analyst Shaw Wu. Sources are said to indicate two main models being in production: the first is the expected major update, with iPhone 4 features such as a Retina Display, video recording and FaceTime video calls. The other is described as an "entry-level" player, little changed from present third-generation Touches, likely selling for $199.

Wu's sources also point to a "significant redesign" of the iPod nano, which gained several features in 2009, most notably a video camera and an FM tuner. Apple has allegedly been procuring components for a smaller Nano, which would also take the radical step of eliminating the clickwheel. "We [Kaufman] frankly are not sure if this model will see the light of day," Wu comments. "But this would be a big departure from the design it has had since 2005 when it replaced the iPod mini. From our take, a radical refresh may make sense to jumpstart what was once its [Apple's] top-selling iPod."

The analyst also speculates that Apple will not use the September event to reveal an updated Apple TV, rumored to be called the iTV. "Because of the timing and the image on the invite, we would be surprised if a new Apple TV is announced at this event," he says, adding though that Apple is "known to surprise." The device is still expected to launch during the holiday season or in the first half of 2011.

by MacNN Staff