By Claire Reilly
SYDNEY, NSW: Apple had the tech world watching today with the launch of its newest iPhone model – the 4S. Along with the much-anticipated smartphone announcement, Apple also confirmed that it would be refreshing its iPod Touch and iPod Nano ranges with new features and reduced pricing.
The iPod Touch will be available in black and white, and like the new iPhone 4S, will have access to Apple’s iCloud wireless cloud storage service and the new iOS 5 operating system. According to Apple, iOS 5 promises over 200 new features including Game Center, Notifications, Wi-Fi Syncing to iTunes and iMessage.
The new iMessage feature allows iPod Touch users to send and receive text messages, photos, video and contact information to others using an iOS 5 device, similar to the functionality of a smartphone.
Apple iCloud, which was launched along with iOS 5 in June, will allow iPod Touch users to wirelessly push content to an online server for storage and access it across multiple devices including iPhone, iPad, Mac or PC,
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“iPod has revolutionised the way we listen to music and with over 320 million sold is the world’s most popular music player,” said Apple senior vice president of worldwide product marketing, Philip Schiller. “iPod Touch, now available in both black and white, is the best selling iPod ever, and with iOS 5 and iCloud it is better than ever.”
The iPod Nano has also received a refresh, with an FM radio, a redesigned user interface that boasts Multi-Touch functionality and 16 new digital clock faces, including Disney character designs.
The Nano also boasts updated fitness features, and is able to monitor running and walking activity without the need for an additional accessory. The device tracks the time, pace and distance of a run showing the calories burnt and the number of steps taken, and also offers real-time voice feedback for motivation.
The iPod Nano is available in seven colours including silver, graphite, blue, green, orange and pink, as well as a (PRODUCT) RED-branded Nano that raises money for AIDS research. The Nano is available starting at RRP AUD$149, while the black and white iPod touch models are available starting at RRP AUD$219.
Apple's new iPod Touch will feature iCloud and iOS 5.
The line-up of iPod Nano colours.