Nano switches to iOS

Apple today announced several new iPods, amongst which were the new iPod nano and shuffle. The Nano has seen the most radical changes, as it is now a square touchscreen device based on iOS, having completely jettisoned a clickwheel. It's said to be 46 percent smaller while also incorporating a belt clip, making it possible to use the player during exercise without an armband.

Other features include VoiceOver commands, FM radio, Nike+ support and a pedometer, but the camera appears to have been axed. The internal battery should support roughly 24 hours of audio playback. The Nano should ship next week in 8 and 16GB capacities, costing $149 and $179 respectively. Seven different colors will be available including a special Product (RED) option.

Apple's fourth-generation iPod shuffle has unusually regained a clickwheel, having done without the control option in the last edition. People can also use VoiceOver commands, which now support both regular playlists and Genius mixes. Battery life is rated at 15 hours; five colors are available, though only a 2GB, $49 model will go on sale alongside the Nano next week.

by MacNN Staff