iPod Nano 2010--Where's it Headed?

[puma1552]

Alright, let's do one of these for the nano. The iPod forum gets a bit dull about this time of year, so let's speculate.

I think this year for the nano we will see pretty tame updates.

I think we will get:

--Same exact form factor and colors
--Maybe a slightly brighter screen
--30 hour battery
--32 GB (guaranteed after a 16 GB cap for two years)

Other than that I really think it will stay the same; there's not a lot they can do with the form factor, and given a lot of updates to the line last year, this year will probably be a relatively tame year for the nano, with mainly just the capacity bump and battery life bump (and possibly a little better screen but doubtful). I think you will see 8 and 32 GB versions; Apple likes to hang onto that 8 GB slot to keep the price low, but I can't see them offering three capacities for the nano--hence, the 16 GB will get dropped. Price points will remain the same.

What do you think?

Personally I think the current nano is perfection, I just think it needs 32 GB and it would be perfect (and better battery life is never a bad thing).

[Atomike]

Hardware - different colors. That's about it.
Software - maybe remove podcasting altogether, since they seem to be moving in that direction. They seem to be slowing adding bugs to the podcasting aspect of the ipods - likely in an attempt to slowly eliminate this feature. I think Steve Jobs must really, really hate podcasts or something.
Maybe some podcaster once said something negative about Apple or something - who knows.

[longball11]

They gotta change the form factor on the iPod Nano now. It's been the same for what? 2-3 years? It's gotta change. They change it every now and then, don't they?

I am more interested in the iPod Classic though.

[instaxgirl]

If nothing else they'll at least change the colours.

The capacity'll still have to reach 64GB before it'll work for me :( I think they'll need to move on from 8GB though, 8GB is nothing. Even my listen in any crappy format and only listen to singles brother has surpassed 8GB.

[Dekimasu]

32 and they've got themselves a sale. I'd even pay a bit more for it. Any chance that some sort of Flash price problem is going to keep them at 16?

I mean, they've got to start upping the Nano capacity now that all the Touch users are going to be buying iPads, right?

[BlizzardBomb]

Apple would miss a trick if they don't do a 32 GB model this time around. It's definitely possible now.

[puma1552]

What colors/changes are you guys expecting?

[Chundles]

32GB
720p recording
Support for HD iTunes content
Slight changes to the colours, possibly a return to less, matte, colours
16:9 Display (240 x 426 = ~16:9)
Fix the click wheel so it feels as solid as the 4G rather than the super-flimsy 5G.

[SactoGuy18]

Here's my "three day wild guess" on what the new nano will be like:

16 or 32 GB of storage.
Slightly "thicker" to accommodate a larger battery to extend battery life per charge from a projected 24 hours to 40 hours.
True 16:9 aspect ratio LCD display.
Will include non-camera version (mostly because many public places ban the possession of any type of camera).
Will still incorporate podcast capability (it's still a popular feature).

[speedyraf]

Better battery life, more storage, and keep the podcast feature. I listen to a number of podcasts, myself, along with audiobooks on the go. If a non-camera option (limited color/s fine with me) were offered on the 6th gen iPod nano, that would make my decision easier. The 5th gen iPod nano's features strongly tempt me, but there are places I'd have to leave it home (if I bought it) due to the camera.

[OGDaniel]

Better camera, more space. What else can they do? They're not changing the form factor either, that wouldn't be wise at all.

[SactoGuy18]

Better camera, more space. What else can they do? They're not changing the form factor either, that wouldn't be wise at all.

If Apple releases a 6G nano with a slightly "thicker" case to accommodate a bigger battery for longer battery life per charge (up to 36-40 hours), ups the storage capacity to 32 GB maximum, and make the camera an optional item, they could have a huge winner! A lot of people would buy the non-camera version, to say the least (I'd be first in line to get one).

[bniu]

how bout give the dang thing OS X? Classic is likely dead.

[jona2d]

Am i the only one that thinks an iPod Touch Nano would be a good next step?

Small and sleek form factor, not as bulky as the iPod Touch itself...? Keep the display the same size, and perhaps have the touch interface where the click wheel is now? OR make the full screen the interface just like the touch?

[ajones46]

Am i the only one that thinks an iPod Touch Nano would be a good next step?

Small and sleek form factor, not as bulky as the iPod Touch itself...? Keep the display the same size, and perhaps have the touch interface where the click wheel is now? OR make the full screen the interface just like the touch?

No. Just as the iPad is eating into iPod touch sales, that'll eat it from the lower end. And I think it'll just be way too small.

[teairra]

"Technology doesn't get enough of what's on hand..."
Particulary with Apple, so I guess something is always cooking in Cupertino. :apple:

and for the iPod Touch Nano ?... Its not way too far be materialize thou. Everyone's into this touch screen thing right?...:p

[instaxgirl]

I hate the touch screen for navigating music.

I'd rather buy another brand of mp3 player and have to move away from iTunes than buy an iPod without a clickwheel.

[puma1552]

I can't stand touch screens either; back in early 2008 I bought a 32 GB iPod touch when they finally came out, and thought it was the coolest thing ever for a while. Then I realized how much touch screens suck for practicality.

I sold it after months of not using it, and now the Classic/nano are the only ones I have, and the only ones I'd use.

Touch screens are so...1995.

[macchiato2009]

if the cap was 16 Gb for the last 2 years, it's mainly because flash memory is costly and because Apple wants to keep the ipods "affordable"

you can always get a 32 or 64, chips are available

but the price of your ipod then would be very different from what you are paying now

[shingi70]

Wi-Fi Itunes music store.

Im mean the non touch zunes can do it and we need it.


a social networking feature.

[instaxgirl]

a social networking feature.

Of what kind?

I really don't see why a nano of all things needs social networking.

[QAZWSXEDCRFV]

I think wifi should be built into the 6th generation because you wouldnt need to connect to itunes everytime you wanted to buy a son. They should also include a camera AND recorder with longer battery life/new design and more memory.

[shingi70]

a camera that can take still pics.

also HD video. I mean i have a couple of videos from vimeo that can't be put on my ipod or don't show video if i make an ipod version.

[No ice please]

Wifi sync
More like the 3rd gen nano and make it thicker.
2 Mp camera maybe 3?????
32GB is a plus
Itunes remote function
Durability!! My little brother has had 2 nanos and the screens and body had been battered to hell and back.
Better sound quality

[Blondie :)]

Wifi sync would be a good idea (much like the zune's do). Although I personally don't need it, 32GB seems like it would be nice for a lot of people. I also saw someone mention 720p recording. That would be totally intense! The camera is perfect for the really actiony/outdoorsy people, such as myself, and 720p would be very cool. A bigger battery would probably be necessary in order to support the higher end video recording and such.

[TorontoLRT]

32GB, limited WiFi for things like sync and shopping, and maybe a higher-res screen.

[KLTechNerd]

features that I think the iPod nano 6G should have

- Support for Hi Def Video
- A 16G and a 32G model (and not have a 8G model)
- Wi Fi (Like the iPod Touch)
- I would love to see the colors of the 4G nano return. the 5G colors are too shiny
- TV anntenna (for HD TV Viewing, maybe even a recording feature so you can record your TV shows, or maybe a feature so you can "mark" your favorite TV shows and then buy them in a Wi Fi Store)

- I hope it keeps the look that it currently has. I love tilting my 4G nano so I can watch video on it, and I love how easily it fits into my Pocket.

- I would love it if the OS was redone to look more like the iPod touch but with someone using the click-wheel to navigate the menu

[KLTechNerd]

If nothing else they'll at least change the colours.

The capacity'll still have to reach 64GB before it'll work for me :( I think they'll need to move on from 8GB though, 8GB is nothing. Even my listen in any crappy format and only listen to singles brother has surpassed 8GB.

That is so true, I bought a 4G iPod that could hold 8GB and I filled it in less than a month with music

[Brien]

I'd be happy with just bumping to 32GB, and perhaps eliminating the iPod shuffle to bring the price down on the lower models ($79 for an 8GB nano sounds nice).

[JoEw]

features that I think the iPod nano 6G should have

- Support for Hi Def Video
on that small of a screen?

- A 16G and a 32G model (and not have a 8G model)

Agree.

- Wi Fi (Like the iPod Touch)

Possibly if apple wants there cloud itunes to be a hit they should start getting wifi into as many ipod nanos as possible.

- I would love to see the colors of the 4G nano return. the 5G colors are too shiny

I agree.

- TV anntenna (for HD TV Viewing, maybe even a recording feature so you can record your TV shows, or maybe a feature so you can "mark" your favorite TV shows and then buy them in a Wi Fi Store)

What? why would they add that? Apple wants you to buy stuff from there itunes store.

- I hope it keeps the look that it currently has. I love tilting my 4G nano so I can watch video on it, and I love how easily it fits into my Pocket.

Agreed.

- I would love it if the OS was redone to look more like the iPod touch but with someone using the click-wheel to navigate the menu


Not sure how that would work... i like the current os maybe just slight modification to mix it up.

[puma1552]

The battery has to improve to 30 hours. It's been 24 hours for quite a few years.

Keep the exact same form factor and colors, but for the love of god leave 8 GB behind Apple--let it go. Give us 16 and 32 GB (32 GB is guaranteed this year after two years of 16 GB)

maybe a little better camera or camera capable of taking stills, and i think they may move the camera to a more ergonomic position (unlikely but possibly).

basically if they left it EXACTLY as is but went 32 GB, id sell all three of my current 5th gen 16 GB models and buy three new ones. For me, with 12 gigs of music, the 30 GB ballpark is the sweetspot. The iPod would be far outdated before I filled it. 16 is pushing it. Another year, ehhh, it probably will be full.

[capn7]

...firewire?

lol

[puma1552]

for the love of god dont change the form factor apple, 32 gigs please

prototypes should be close to production models at this point--how much longer til we get a leak you think?

[jgunn]

I really just want bluetooth so I can jog with my bluetooth headphones and not have the cable dangling everywhere. I do think apple are due to release some ear buds without a cable or even just an ipod/headphones

[ChrisGonzales90]

for the love of god dont change the form factor apple, 32 gigs please

prototypes should be close to production models at this point--how much longer til we get a leak you think?

Keep checking gizmodo

[puma1552]

I'd like to see them ditch the iPod branding and just have the Apple logo on the back. Hold your finger over the word iPod, looks a lot cleaner IMO. Everyone knows it's an iPod by now.

[cherry su]

I think WiFi sync would debut on the iOS devices and slowly make its way do the standard iPod devices.

[eijhey]

My dream nano would be:

32Gb
Atleast as small as the 3rd gen (my favorite nano of all time :D)
Fm Tuner
Wifi Syncing
Battery Improvement
And atleast some physical appearance upgrade.

[bc008]

fun game :)

Mine:
- 32 GB Nano
- 3rd Gen. form factor
- 4th Gen. color scheme
- bluetooth for wireless headphones
- camera that takes pictures
- Wifi with very basic browser/iTunes store/syncing

[eijhey]

fun game :)

Mine:
- 32 GB Nano
- 3rd Gen. form factor
- 4th Gen. color scheme
- bluetooth for wireless headphones
- camera that takes pictures
- Wifi with very basic browser/iTunes store/syncing

High five for admiring the form factor of the 3rd gen ^_^

[ChrisGonzales90]

I like the shinny. Matte is soooooooooooo 1996........

[brendanspah764]

Does anyone else think that it is kinda odd that there hasn't been a single rumor on the Shuffle, Nano, or the Classic... even the Touch.

[below sea level]

My dream nano would be:
Fm Tuner


I'd like an AM tuner. Some sports are still only broadcast on AM radio.

I can't think of anything else that would make me upgrade from my current 4G.

[3milejogger]

future nanos should be more robust:

32GB, leading to 64GB
wifi sync
inductively charged
waterproof
am/fm radio
no camera
no touch screen
no social networking
no speaker
no voice recording
current battery is fine

[Peterson8765]

I am relatively new to MacRumors and this is my first thread, so I decided to start with something easy. Here is a list of specs and expectations of the new iPod Nano that will probably be released in September of this year. Here are the specs:

Possible redesign, Apple has stuck with the same candy bar design of the iPod Nano for two generations now, so there will probably a slight redesign of the new Nano, I predict it might revert back to the square design that the iPod Nano 3G had, but I also predict it might have the same style of design but with different shades of colors.

Bigger 2.4" LCD Screen at a higher resolution, with a slightly smaller click wheel

New Capacities: 8GB, 16GB, 32GB The iPod Nano has had 8GB and 16GB for the last two refreshes, so it is obviously time for a capacity jump to 32GB

New Prices: 8GB-$149 16GB-$179 32GB-$229

New App Store for iPod Nano, so you can buy Click Wheel applications for the new Nano, on your computer on iTunes and then sync them to the new Nano. The iPod Click Wheel Games Store has failed since there hasn't been any new games added since about 2008, and there is only a few of them as well.

New Camera: I am very sure that Apple is going to put a new camera in the new Nano enabling it to capture 720p HD video, since almost all new and recent pocket camcorders have HD recording, and only a few have VGA recording. I'm not so sure that Apple will put a still picture camera in the new Nano, since Steve Jobs said that they couldn't put a still camera sensor so small in the 5th Generation Nano. There also might be some new effects added, and maybe some editing features you could do some cutting video using the click wheel. Who knows.

Same FM Radio w/ Live Pause
Better speaker quality
Microphone
Same Anodized Aluminum

Post what you guys think what the new iPod Nano 6th Generation specs might be. Thanks. :)

[iEvolution]

I like the shinny. Matte is soooooooooooo 1996........

meh, the glossy finish on the nano looks like it was achieved by using a $1 can of generic clear coat. Matte should be mandatory, shiny only attracts finger prints and looks like crap.

[KameronBriggs]

ability to capture pictures??
yes??

[KameronBriggs]

I just realized. Apple has been slackin'.
They kept the same design on the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPod's..DX

[rgarjr]

I just realized. Apple has been slackin'.
They kept the same design on the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPod's..DX

Yeah, that's called the engineers/designers being lazy :D

[rgarjr]

32GB storage space
Bluetooth - A2DP
HD radio
WIFI chip to stream Internet radio

[Peterson8765]

I just realized. Apple has been slackin'.
They kept the same design on the iPhone, iPod touch, and iPod's..DX

Yes, they have. They had the iPhone 3G and 3GS look the exact same, the iPod Touch 2G and 3G the same, and both Nano's look similar and so does the Classic after three years. Since they completely redesigned the iPhone 4, I think that the new Nano 6G is going to be redesigned.

[avit]

Sorry to tell you but I'm 100% sure there won't be an App Store for the iPod nano. Like ever.

[Mr. McMac]

How come nobody mentions anything about improved sound quality?

[mbrown5]

I agree with some that they should revert it back to the more sturdy 4G design. I think they made the 5G the way they did to keep the price the same even after adding the camcorder. But when I'm looking for an apple product I'm not looking for compromises.other than that I can't think of too much they could improve on. I think the overall style shouldn't be changed, I don't want a redesigned touch interface, it'd ruin the beautiful curves of the nano. Just expand on what you got apple.

[Peterson8765]

I agree with some that they should revert it back to the more sturdy 4G design. I think they made the 5G the way they did to keep the price the same even after adding the camcorder. But when I'm looking for an apple product I'm not looking for compromises.other than that I can't think of too much they could improve on. I think the overall style shouldn't be changed, I don't want a redesigned touch interface, it'd ruin the beautiful curves of the nano. Just expand on what you got apple.

I agree, the andodized alumninum of the new nano isn't being loved by a lot of people, they should go back to matte.

[dan-o-mac]

Am i the only one that thinks an iPod Touch Nano would be a good next step?

Small and sleek form factor, not as bulky as the iPod Touch itself...? Keep the display the same size, and perhaps have the touch interface where the click wheel is now? OR make the full screen the interface just like the touch?

Something along the lines of this HTC mock-up perhaps?

http://i32.tinypic.com/2vifv2c.jpg

[Peterson8765]

I just can't wait until September until all of the new iPods are released. I'm probably looking forward to the Nano the most, but the Touch right behind it. I'm looking forward to what Apple has in store for us consumers.

[sparks9]

i'm hoping for a GPS for running purposes

[sparks9]

How come nobody mentions anything about improved sound quality?

because it's perfectly fine already. nano is not for audiophiles.

[Peterson8765]

Apple will most likely improve, and add a couple of new features to the new iPod nano this September at the event, I don't really know what features they could add except for the possibility of an application store specifically for the new nano that you would access on iTunes on your computer. They will most likely add 720P HD video capture to the video camera, and a slight chance of putting in photo capability.

[iEvolution]

Lookin for that 32GB capacity, but quite honestly I'm not sure there will be much of a upgrade this year. I think this year will be the year of the iPod Touch since it was such a crap upgrade last year outside of the 64GB update.

This is what I think will happen:
- a change in form factor, been essentially the same since 2008.
- ability to take photos
- disappointing lack of capacity update again, only a complete drop of the 8GB model and 16GB model only. Let us remember that the only reason the nano got the 16GB update in 2008 was because of a certain direct competitor [Zune 16].
- change in shades of colors, perhaps dropping a few of the lower selling colors

This is what I want to happen:
- improvement to 32HR battery life for audio/7hr video
- 32GB capacity [A MUST if I am going to buy one, otherwise my 4th gen will be fine for me] or a expansion slot [which would be even better]...hey it could happen I mean after all Apple was anti-FM radio for so long.
- As long as the item would have seek buttons I think a iPod Touch in mini form factor would be a pretty sweet idea.
- The return of the iconic WHITE color

Really those are the main things I want to happen.

I am absolutely anti-cloud computing BTW, the idea of streaming it from a company owned server instead of MY COMPUTER or from MY files is a extremely bad idea. Too much power given to companies.

[thejadedmonkey]

For the longest time, I've wanted the buttons on the click wheel to light up, much like they did on the old 3G iPod.

And yeah, an iconic white would be nice.

[iSara]

What I want for the updated iPod nano:
-A camera for taking still photos
-I would like the return of white to the iPod nano colors, but it's not necessarily, I would want more for the colors not to be so shiny.
-A user setting for the EQ
-A change in form factor, I liked the form factor of the 3rd gen. It was nicer then.

Meh, it's just me. I have the current nano.

[Googlyhead]

How come nobody mentions anything about improved sound quality?
It is a consumer device, with tiny components. There will always be a cost / quality tradeoff, even if they make small improvements each revision.

- The return of the iconic WHITE color
Oh yes. Make up for that white iPhone, Stevie. ;)

[jahall]

I'm using a 4th gen iPod right now, and I'm not buying a 6th gen Nano or a 4th gen Touch unless neither have cameras - I'll just get an older model touch from the stock that they're hiding out back :p

The cameras may be convienent, but it's just too easy to be tapped without knowing it. *shudders*

[ollypop]

I'd really like to see a higher pixel camera, maybe 3.2 or something, i mean let's stay reallistic, that could take pictures, as well as shoot 720p HD videos. that would be awsesome.
32GB would certainly be nice, as would longer battery life. But surely with apple now making Retina-display iphones, the other ipod screens will at least become LCD/LED? Certainly at least capable of playing back itunes HD content.

[millertime021]

I'd really like to see a higher pixel camera, maybe 3.2 or something, i mean let's stay reallistic, that could take pictures, as well as shoot 720p HD videos. that would be awsesome.
32GB would certainly be nice, as would longer battery life. But surely with apple now making Retina-display iphones, the other ipod screens will at least become LCD/LED? Certainly at least capable of playing back itunes HD content.

Why does everyone expect 720p video recording?? Currently it has a 0.3MP camera. That's a joke...

The iPhone *just* got 720p video recording.

We may see it in the touch this year, but I doubt it. For the nano, I'd say at least a few more years.

[kemperman]

Two things, the first is wifi which enables the second, FACE TIME

[JoEw]

I'd really like to see a higher pixel camera, maybe 3.2 or something, i mean let's stay reallistic, that could take pictures, as well as shoot 720p HD videos. that would be awsesome.
32GB would certainly be nice, as would longer battery life. But surely with apple now making Retina-display iphones, the other ipod screens will at least become LCD/LED? Certainly at least capable of playing back itunes HD content.

why would you ever want to watch hd content on that small of a screen? you wouldnt even be able to tell the difference.

and 720p? do you see how small the nano is? The camera won't change maybe so it can take pictures but thats it.

[JoEw]

Two things, the first is wifi which enables the second, FACE TIME

wifi maybe facetime no way.

Wifi so you can access music from the cloud. Thats it.

[bjt3]

What I'd like:
32 & 64 GB with expandable memory slot
More rugged - Washing machine proof! (I've lost two that way!)
Lose the camera. I've got a camera on my phone, plus a digital camera, plus a video camera. I don't need a camera on my music playing device.

It may be too expensive to add, but voice recognition would be nice... Press a button than say "Bon Jovi", and it immediately starts playing all Bon Jovi songs. Or say a name of a song, say "shuffle", say "genius", etc...

Maybe a better designed power/lock button?

Solar recharging. Have a solar panel behind the screen?

[OGDaniel]

how bout give the dang thing OS X? Classic is likely dead.

The Nano? You should be a software engineer at Apple if you know a way to get that done. Who wouldn't want OS X on an iPod Nano?

/endsarcasm

[dav1203]

What I'd like:
32 & 64 GB with expandable memory slot
More rugged - Washing machine proof! (I've lost two that way!)
Lose the camera. I've got a camera on my phone, plus a digital camera, plus a video camera. I don't need a camera on my music playing device.

It may be too expensive to add, but voice recognition would be nice... Press a button than say "Bon Jovi", and it immediately starts playing all Bon Jovi songs. Or say a name of a song, say "shuffle", say "genius", etc...

Maybe a better designed power/lock button?

Solar recharging. Have a solar panel behind the screen?

I think there will be no nano 64GB, just a 32GB and maybee a better battery life (24 hours... for exemple cowon J3 : 64h) and better camera.
New colors, new design (please, not the 3g)

8gb -- --
16gb -- 149$
32gb -- 199$

Wait & see...

[Lesser Evets]

64 GB? You gotta be kidding.
32 GB new max, if that.

I'd hope to see the Nano fade downward in price and let go with designs. Keep it going down sub-$100 for 8GB. Apple should make the iPod Touch the new, desired iPod and all non-app products should wither on the vine.

If Apple is still caught in the old and impractical product rung, it will have better camera, twice the memory, larger screen.

[Peterson8765]

I think Apple would price a 32GB nano at $219 to $229, which is still pretty reasonable.

[instaxgirl]

Apple should make the iPod Touch the new, desired iPod and all non-app products should wither on the vine.

Eurgh apps on everything would mean touchscreens on everything - not a fan of the touchscreen iPod.

[R94N]

Eurgh apps on everything would mean touchscreens on everything - not a fan of the touchscreen iPod.

Neither am I. I prefer the classic clickwheel.


Some improvements/refreshes in the iPod area would be really nice. Hopefully they'll be some new stuff in September.

[macpro2000]

clickwheel was a great concept...however touchscreen is much more versatile.

[Lesser Evets]

Eurgh apps on everything would mean touchscreens on everything - not a fan of the touchscreen iPod.

Face reality, though: apps make a LOT of cash for Apple. Also, a mere mp3-video player is already going into "cheap" technology. Within 2 years, a mere mp3-video player won't be able to sell for $179 because everyone will have one on the market for $60.

Apple has to move their shuffles and nanos lower on the rung in the next couple years or just spin wheels. They are still struggling to keep the shuffles at $99, but it's a joke.

[instaxgirl]

clickwheel was a great concept...however touchscreen is much more versatile.

Rubbish for music though. About the only thing that's better on a touch is faster navigation through your entire library and the repeat/shuffle buttons. Otherwise it's just a pain to use. I love my iPhone as a smartphone, loathe it as a music player.

Face reality, though: apps make a LOT of cash for Apple.

Oh I know that. Doesn't change how I feel about touchscreen iPods.

[Peterson8765]

iPod shuffle's have always been on the pricey side, you can basically get the same thing as a shuffle with actual controls on the player for less than $20 for 2GB. The price on the shuffle needs to be dropped $10-15

[sparks9]

iPod shuffle's have always been on the pricey side, you can basically get the same thing as a shuffle with actual controls on the player for less than $20 for 2GB. The price on the shuffle needs to be dropped $10-15

Apple doesn't sell cheap products. I think they would rather increase the size of the memory than lower the price.

[Lesser Evets]

Apple doesn't sell cheap products. I think they would rather increase the size of the memory than lower the price.

One problem: shuffles with 4GB are silly. There are just too many files on there to shuffle properly. You need to click a thousand times to get back to a song. The shuffle should be shuffled downward to sub-$50 and the 2GB should be $29. Would a 180GB shuffle make sense, if it could be done? No. 4GB is too much. Anything over is ridiculous.

Price needs to drop. Tech needs to be held where it is, or expanded with screen and playlists (but then the idea of the shuffle changes into something nano-ish).

If the rumor from last month is true and accurate, a 3cmx3cm touch screen is being made and put into Apple products soon. If this is a Shuffle screen, they could enlarge the scope of a shuffle and thus give more memory and keep price higher. A 1.5"x1.5" shuffle with 8GB and a tiny touch screen would be pretty cool, but it's a little desperate to make something with a wide market so expensive when they could make good money selling a smaller, cheaper device that needs very little development over the next 5 years.

[tactician1016]

What would you all say the odds of a 32GB or more Nano are? If they do go to that, is it worth it over my current 80GB Classic? My itunes library holds about 20GB of media total (6gb music (600 or so songs 320kbps AAC), 10gb videos, 4gb podcasts), and expands slowly but surely.

[Peterson8765]

I think its time for Apple to go 32GB with the 6G nano, they have had 16GB in their line up for 2 years so it's time for a bump, I don't expect them dropping prices though.

[brendanspah764]

I did this in like two minutes; i'll give it a shot.

[jtodd11]

Here is what I would like to be in the new iPod Nano:
- Ability to take photos
- 16GB, 32GB, 64GB (maybe) memory.
- Longer lasting battery
- UI improvements
- Camera in a different position (the current position is awkward in my opinion)

[ab001]

A lot of information is avaliable at www.ipodnano6g.co.uk

[AlasdairM]

The bin? :D

[KLTechNerd]

The new nano is a major bummer :eek:

No Clickwheel
No Movies
No Podcast
No Tilt function
No Clickwheel games
No Notes
No Calander
No WiFi

I hope my Nano 4G can last for another year, because I will not be getting the new nano 6G. And if the nano keeps the touch Screen I will never buy another nano again. *starts crying* :(

[izimzis]

Alright, let's do one of these for the nano. The iPod forum gets a bit dull about this time of year, so let's speculate.

I think this year for the nano we will see pretty tame updates.

I think we will get:

--Same exact form factor and colors
--Maybe a slightly brighter screen
--30 hour battery
--32 GB (guaranteed after a 16 GB cap for two years)

Other than that I really think it will stay the same; there's not a lot they can do with the form factor, and given a lot of updates to the line last year, this year will probably be a relatively tame year for the nano, with mainly just the capacity bump and battery life bump (and possibly a little better screen but doubtful). I think you will see 8 and 32 GB versions; Apple likes to hang onto that 8 GB slot to keep the price low, but I can't see them offering three capacities for the nano--hence, the 16 GB will get dropped. Price points will remain the same.

What do you think?

Personally I think the current nano is perfection, I just think it needs 32 GB and it would be perfect (and better battery life is never a bad thing).


too funny, i mean its almost all wrong....xD

[billysea]

clickwheel was a great concept...however touchscreen is much more versatile.

The touch screen is versatile on the iPhone and iTouch due to all the different apps that utilize it; but in the new Nano, it doesn't run any apps, so what does it really do beyond selecting songs?

I think most of the complaints is that the new Nano strip out way too many features for a fancy multi-touch screens that does nothing beyond what the click wheel already could. The only multi-touch functionality is rotating the screen - something that the 5G did smarter and did it automatically through accelerometer.

[TroyBoy30]

someone must like them because all of my local apple stores are sold out of nanos. I don't need a camera, video, notes and all that crap. just a simply music player with enough space for all my music that i can work out with and not have to worry about damaging my iphone. nano is perfect for me!

[tigress666]

The touch screen is versatile on the iPhone and iTouch due to all the different apps that utilize it; but in the new Nano, it doesn't run any apps, so what does it really do beyond selecting songs?

I think most of the complaints is that the new Nano strip out way too many features for a fancy multi-touch screens that does nothing beyond what the click wheel already could. The only multi-touch functionality is rotating the screen - something that the 5G did smarter and did it automatically through accelerometer.

The touch screen is so much nicer than the clickwheel for navigating through your song and playlists. Plus more versatile (now you can edit the playlist on the ipod, something that would have been tedious to do if they tried to implement that with the clickwheel).

[shanmugam]

The new nano is a major bummer :eek:

No Clickwheel
No Movies
No Podcast
No Tilt function
No Clickwheel games
No Notes
No Calander
No WiFi

I hope my Nano 4G can last for another year, because I will not be getting the new nano 6G. And if the nano keeps the touch Screen I will never buy another nano again. *starts crying* :(

$149 8Gb iPod touch (2nd gen) refurbhised units looks solid compared to the current 8Gb iPod nano for $149

[Bozley0621]

The new nano is a major bummer :eek:

No Clickwheel
No Movies
No Podcast
No Tilt function
No Clickwheel games
No Notes
No Calander
No WiFi

I hope my Nano 4G can last for another year, because I will not be getting the new nano 6G. And if the nano keeps the touch Screen I will never buy another nano again. *starts crying* :(

There are no podcasts on the new nano?

[tigress666]

There are no podcasts on the new nano?

There is. There's a button specifically for them.

[Spankey]

I'm sure Apple knows their customer demographics and the direction of the company.

Apple is moving to "Touch" in as many iterations as possible. They saw the Nano as one more opportunity to move in that direction.

If you want a video camera, still camera, games, calendar, and every other kind of app, pony up the extra $100 and get an iPod Touch.

It seems reasonable that Apple is looking to maximize profits by pointing more customers in the iPod Touch direction. The Nano is the perfect size to carry around a good amount of music that obscurely clips on to just about everything.

I want one. My iPad has already replaced the iPod Touch. I have room for a music only player when mowing the lawn, working out, and just walking around...

[alphaod]

I just got the new nano. I like it.

[billysea]

someone must like them because all of my local apple stores are sold out of nanos. I don't need a camera, video, notes and all that crap. just a simply music player with enough space for all my music that i can work out with and not have to worry about damaging my iphone. nano is perfect for me!

I am sure it will sell a lot (especially at the beginning) due to its 'wow' factor. But in terms of practicality and value this definitely a failure.

It's not that it is wrong to have a music player that only play music, but for the cost they are charging, $150-180 for a machine that only play songs nowadays? It's way overpriced.

[tigress666]

I am sure it will sell a lot (especially at the beginning) due to its 'wow' factor. But in terms of practicality and value this definitely a failure.

It's not that it is wrong to have a music player that only play music, but for the cost they are charging, $150-180 for a machine that only play songs nowadays? It's way overpriced.

Bah, the ipod was way overpriced years ago. It's Apple, that's how they are.

And honestly, maybe you don't find it practical but I can tell you it hits exactly the right reasons I want to have a Nano despite already having an iPhone (it hits all the things the ipod touch/iphone really can't do as well that makes it not redundant to have). It's a huge improvement imho (though I'd be yelling bloody murder if there was no way to have physical buttons but you can buy a remote to go with your headphones and for me, I already have headphones I love with a remote cause they work with my current nano and my iphone).

I don't need a video camera or video playing ability, anytime I'd use that I have my iphone on me which will do a far better job than the little video camera they could put on the nano and the little screen even the fifth gen has. I need something small that is light and stays out of the way, even better that I can clip it onto things. With physical buttons for when I don't want to look (Though honestly the iphone is now fine for that with the remote, and hte nano will be fine for that with the remote as well).

They are not marketing the nano for those that want video capability, they have an ipod Touch for that (and why would they want two of their products competing for the same market, it's a very smart business move honestly). THey are marketing for those that need a music player on the go. That doesn't compete with the Touch and in fact can still be useful for those that have a Touch/iPhone.

[KLTechNerd]

The Nano? You should be a software engineer at Apple if you know a way to get that done. Who wouldn't want OS X on an iPod Nano?

/endsarcasm

I like this idea
I would buy a iPod nano with OS X on it, the best part about it is that it would be a cheaper mac on the market, than the expensive Mac mini.

[KLTechNerd]

There are no podcasts on the new nano?

Most of the Podcast are in video now, the new nano can't play video. So I do not think that the new nano can play Podcast

[tigress666]

Most of the Podcast are in video now, the new nano can't play video. So I do not think that the new nano can play Podcast

It's quite possible it can still play the audio. But it does have a whole button/menu dedicated to podcasts so it's not like they completely left them out (it's not a feature I use, I just know it's there cause I've already decided that one is going on the last screen since I don't use it).

Kinda like on my music videos I have it will play the song but not the movie when I have it on music mode (of course I have not tested if it will do the same on the new nano but I suspect it will).

[KLTechNerd]

There are no podcasts on the new nano?

It's quite possible it can still play the audio. But it does have a whole button/menu dedicated to podcasts so it's not like they completely left them out (it's not a feature I use, I just know it's there cause I've already decided that one is going on the last screen since I don't use it).

Kinda like on my music videos I have it will play the song but not the movie when I have it on music mode (of course I have not tested if it will do the same on the new nano but I suspect it will).

Good point maybe the new nano does do that but seeing the video though is so cool

[speedyraf]

The 6th gen iPod nano guide (found in the Manuals section of Apple's website) says it can be used as a disk drive like its predecessors. That implies "Notes" to me, so why did Apple leave out the similar calendar and contacts applications? The latter are programs I use often with my 2nd gen iPod nano. Does it make sense to wait for a software update and see what changes with the 6th gen iPod nano? I'm also considering a refurb 5th gen iPod nano but don't know if more places around here will start banning camera laden technology. Once my local Apple store has the 6th gen iPod nano in stock, I'll actually see and handle one. That's exciting!

[gonzaload1987]

Bah, the ipod was way overpriced years ago. It's Apple, that's how they are.

And honestly, maybe you don't find it practical but I can tell you it hits exactly the right reasons I want to have a Nano despite already having an iPhone (it hits all the things the ipod touch/iphone really can't do as well that makes it not redundant to have). It's a huge improvement imho (though I'd be yelling bloody murder if there was no way to have physical buttons but you can buy a remote to go with your headphones and for me, I already have headphones I love with a remote cause they work with my current nano and my iphone).

I don't need a video camera or video playing ability, anytime I'd use that I have my iphone on me which will do a far better job than the little video camera they could put on the nano and the little screen even the fifth gen has. I need something small that is light and stays out of the way, even better that I can clip it onto things. With physical buttons for when I don't want to look (Though honestly the iphone is now fine for that with the remote, and hte nano will be fine for that with the remote as well).

They are not marketing the nano for those that want video capability, they have an ipod Touch for that (and why would they want two of their products competing for the same market, it's a very smart business move honestly). THey are marketing for those that need a music player on the go. That doesn't compete with the Touch and in fact can still be useful for those that have a Touch/iPhone.

You have just make me convince to buy a new and shine graphite ipod Nano "touch" :p

[coolman1081]

Its Pretty Much Just a Small IPod Touch!!!:mad:
Not Even A Click Wheel I Just Bought a Black 5th Generation Nano 2 Weeks Before this Came Out. I Bought 2 Click Wheel Games For It. Now This Comes Out It Doesn't Run IPhone Apps and It Doesn't Run Click Wheel Apps. So Yeah.

[billysea]

I don't understand the laughable "Apple taking out features of the Nano so it doesn't collide with the iPod Touch market" argument.

Apple has products that overlap in features for years. The Nano and Touch have video playback (and other features) overlapped for the last 3 years.

The main draw point that differentiate Touch and Nano is iOS - the ability to run apps, surf the web, play games etc. They do want to differentiate the market, but stripping out features such as video playback and speaker is not for that reason.

If you think that way, you might as well ask them to take out the touch screen and the iOS-wannabe interface - because that is even more associated with the iTouch.

[tigress666]

I don't understand the laughable "Apple taking out features of the Nano so it doesn't collide with the iPod Touch market" argument.


Because the market they are aimed at are more concerned about how easily portable it is and how easy to navigate. Those are the two most important things. They are looking to sell this to people who just want a music player that is unobtrusive and don't need or use the features. Those using this to walk or excercise with mainly.

You get problems when your two products compete for a similar market. For example the video playing part of it. Those who excercise don't really need that or use it (or use it to take videos). Those who would use it are more likely (if they are smart) to go for the Touch. Yet it will still pull some sales from the Touch, the item Apple really wants to sell to at least a few who just want something cheaper. But it won't sell as well overall cause it will fail to appeal to most of those people cause the Touch does that stuff better (and for really not that much more), and it won't appeal as much to those who want to excercise cause they want something that will fit in a small pocket better (or even better, clip on to somethign cause you don't always have pockets when you are working out). So you get a device doesn't excel at anything

Yes, the Shuffle does also compete for this crowd, but it's a great intro device being so cheap so they keep it around to entice those who just want something really cheap to get them introduced to Apple products.

I mean I can already tell you I see a trend in those who like the idea of the new nano and those who don't (check out the people who complain about it vs. the people who defend it).

Those who like it don't want something more full featured, don't care as much about size, and just want a music player for their on the go needs . They are looking for something simpler, easy to carry around, and don't need the extra features more than they need a small, easy to carry size (either don't really care about having a multi-feature device, just want a music player, or already have one, like me who has an iphone already).

Those who don't like it want to be able to do more stuff with it. Almost always they don't care about size, some even complain the nanos already were getting too small (which leads me to wonder why do they even care when they can get a Touch that does far far more and really isn't that much bigger than the fifth gen nano). They care about the thing having features. They would in general be better served by a Touch.

[SlamJam12]

I wonder if Apple is experimenting with this design for the iPod nano. It is very similar in size and design to the iPod shuffle. The difference is the touchscreen and buttons on the two devices. The two new iPods can be used for the same things; just what the consumer prefers in the touchscreen or buttons. This is the first drastic change in an iPod that I have seen that kept the name of its model. Who knows where it will go from here.

[Spankey]

Picked one up for my wife. Aside from the storage size (for me 32GB is necessary), it is great. The sound quality is very good, the radio received excellent reception in my area, and the size is perfect for a portable music player.

I'm thinking of getting one for myself.

[tubemonkey]

Here is what I would like to be in the new iPod - Camera in a different position (the current position is awkward in my opinion)

You're in luck. Steve heard your plea and moved the camera to the iPod touch. Now it's no longer awkward. :D

[tubemonkey]

someone must like them because all of my local apple stores are sold out of nanos. I don't need a camera, video, notes and all that crap. just a simply music player with enough space for all my music that i can work out with and not have to worry about damaging my iphone. nano is perfect for me!

I agree. Who needs that useless stuff you mentioned or a touch screen cluttering up a basic music player? That's why I have a Sansa Clip+. It's less than half the price and more versatile.

[tubemonkey]

Because the market they are aimed at are more concerned about how easily portable it is and how easy to navigate. Those are the two most important things.

It's more difficult to navigate now because you physically have to look at it in order to operate it. Not so with a button music player.

[Trek2100]

Bah, the ipod was way overpriced years ago. It's Apple, that's how they are.

And honestly, maybe you don't find it practical but I can tell you it hits exactly the right reasons I want to have a Nano despite already having an iPhone (it hits all the things the ipod touch/iphone really can't do as well that makes it not redundant to have). It's a huge improvement imho (though I'd be yelling bloody murder if there was no way to have physical buttons but you can buy a remote to go with your headphones and for me, I already have headphones I love with a remote cause they work with my current nano and my iphone).

I don't need a video camera or video playing ability, anytime I'd use that I have my iphone on me which will do a far better job than the little video camera they could put on the nano and the little screen even the fifth gen has. I need something small that is light and stays out of the way, even better that I can clip it onto things. With physical buttons for when I don't want to look (Though honestly the iphone is now fine for that with the remote, and hte nano will be fine for that with the remote as well).

They are not marketing the nano for those that want video capability, they have an ipod Touch for that (and why would they want two of their products competing for the same market, it's a very smart business move honestly). THey are marketing for those that need a music player on the go. That doesn't compete with the Touch and in fact can still be useful for those that have a Touch/iPhone.

I soooooo totally agree with you:). I think I love you:D

It's more difficult to navigate now because you physically have to look at it in order to operate it. Not so with a button music player.

Get earphones with a remote. It makes everything so much easier, especially when running where even a click wheel is a pain.

Additionally, video capability on the new Nano would be absurd (IMHO), given it's small size. I don't even like to watch videos on my iPhone and my eyesight is fine. The iPad is about the smallest screen size that makes video watching pleasurable.

[mlts22]

There is one place the new Nano shines, and that is a MP3 player when docked, either in a car, or a clock radio. It does not need an insert and has such a low profile that there are no physical support issues when it is sitting in a docking station. Of course, some docks may block button access.

[roland.g]

I wonder if Apple is experimenting with this design for the iPod nano. It is very similar in size and design to the iPod shuffle. The difference is the touchscreen and buttons on the two devices. The two new iPods can be used for the same things; just what the consumer prefers in the touchscreen or buttons. This is the first drastic change in an iPod that I have seen that kept the name of its model. Who knows where it will go from here.

I seriously thought that the Shuffle would be the better bet for about half a second. Then I realized...

Reasons why the Shuffle and Nano are not just differentiated by the touchscreen and buttons:

1. The Nano has Nike+ support and that is huge for people who run and work out.

2. While the Shuffle does support multiple playlists through voiceover, many people want to see what they are choosing.

3. I think for a lot of people, 2GB in a Shuffle is too little. 200-400 songs means having to sync too often. An 16GB Nano will sufficiently hold 2000-2500 songs.

4. Not something I see myself using, but the Nano has a Radio.

Sure I like the idea of the Shuffle's physical buttons, but for me #1, 2, & 3 are too much to overlook for getting a Shuffle.

The only thing the Nano could have used besides built-in Nike+ thus eliminating the need for the receiver dongle was a physical pause button. Short of using remote headphones it would be nice to pause music without waking it first. Even using the wake button to pause through a double-click would have been nice.

[tactician1016]

I seriously thought that the Shuffle would be the better bet for about half a second. Then I realized...

Reasons why the Shuffle and Nano are not just differentiated by the touchscreen and buttons:

1. The Nano has Nike+ support and that is huge for people who run and work out.

2. While the Shuffle does support multiple playlists through voiceover, many people want to see what they are choosing.

3. I think for a lot of people, 2GB in a Shuffle is too little. 200-400 songs means having to sync too often. An 16GB Nano will sufficiently hold 2000-2500 songs.

4. Not something I see myself using, but the Nano has a Radio.

Sure I like the idea of the Shuffle's physical buttons, but for me #1, 2, & 3 are too much to overlook for getting a Shuffle.

The only thing the Nano could have used besides built-in Nike+ thus eliminating the need for the receiver dongle was a physical pause button. Short of using remote headphones it would be nice to pause music without waking it first. Even using the wake button to pause through a double-click would have been nice.
1. I would have to agree, the Nike function is pretty useful. I used it on my 3rd gen Nano. I am interested to see how the new one can do this.
2. Again, agree. Although, having the new shuffle, the playlist function is pretty simple to use.
3. Also a good point. Personally, as my sig indicates, I am using it as a secondary iPod. My iTunes library has about 600 songs (almost 5 gb in 256kbps AAC), so I can load it with my favorites.
4. Probably a useful concept, but wouldn't use it personally.

All in all, while I do agree with you on a lot of this, I think my main gripe with the new nano is, to quote the iLounge review, what they took away. While it is incredibly small, this can actually be both good and bad. I personally don't like the concept, and view it as taking a good idea (small devices) too far, much like last year's shuffle.

[Ashen]

Alright, let's do one of these for the nano. The iPod forum gets a bit dull about this time of year, so let's speculate.

I think this year for the nano we will see pretty tame updates.

I think we will get:

--Same exact form factor and colors
--Maybe a slightly brighter screen
--30 hour battery
--32 GB (guaranteed after a 16 GB cap for two years)

Other than that I really think it will stay the same; there's not a lot they can do with the form factor, and given a lot of updates to the line last year, this year will probably be a relatively tame year for the nano, with mainly just the capacity bump and battery life bump (and possibly a little better screen but doubtful). I think you will see 8 and 32 GB versions; Apple likes to hang onto that 8 GB slot to keep the price low, but I can't see them offering three capacities for the nano--hence, the 16 GB will get dropped. Price points will remain the same.

What do you think?

Personally I think the current nano is perfection, I just think it needs 32 GB and it would be perfect (and better battery life is never a bad thing).
iPod is a great gadget to have, the Apple people have always come up with fresh ideas and applications every time they launch the new edition of all the types of iPod. I am sure that it will be much more attractive than before and will surely impress its fans like always without fail. IPods always rock.

[Brucewl]

I think 8G is totally match my demand with nano, I will manage my songs at set intervals.

[kdum8]

Three things kill the iPod nano 6G for me, the first two more than the last.

1. No Calendar - I use iCal on-the-go to keep my appointments and since they removed this and I don't have an iPhone this is the major deal-breaking feature for me. So far I haven't found a hack solution for this. A way to check my calendar on-the-go is very important for me.

2. No video - small the screen may be, but for watching video podcasts which I do a lot, I would really appreciate this functionality.

3. Not yet 32GB storage - This may be only due to price at this point, but for me 16GB is just not enough. I can however, live with 16GB at a pinch.

"Get an iPod touch!!" I hear you scream. Yes, indeed that is my only option, but frankly it is too big and the nano's portable size is ideal. Apple must have lost sales by removing previous functionality.

Unfortunately because 'Apple always knows best' they often taketh away with one hand what they giveth with the other. It happens all the time with both their software and hardware. Quite a pain when they get it wrong.

[setback]

I think they would rather increase the size of the memory than lower the price.