Apple released its fourth generation iPod Nano yesterday at the Apple “Let’s Rock” event in San Francisco. Among its many merits is the fact that it is the thinnest iPod Apple has made to date. The structure is similar to past iPods, including the trademark wheel design, while the body is made out of curved aluminum with glass over the screen for added shine and protection. But unlike older models, this Nano uses an accelerometer just like its counterparts the iPhone and iPod Touch, and oh yes, it comes in many colors. In fact, the “Nano-chromatic” slogan is already on Apple’s website, displaying all nine choices including the classic white and black, violet, blue, green, yellow, orange, red and magenta.
Some of the other features are second-nature to Apple users by now, including tilting the Nano to start the Cover Flow feature. The accelerometer comes in here, allowing more interactive games that can be played through moving the unit. In addition, just shaking the new Nano now activates the shuffle feature. Tired of hearing a song? shake. Off to a new one without the press of a button.
But what is most intriguing is the “Music Genius” feature, also found on the new iTunes 8. By identifying a song and selecting “Start Genius” other songs in your library with similar rhythmic or tonal qualities will be played. In short, it’s your own personal Pandora and can be used separately from iTunes.
Other, lesser-known features of the new Nanos include environmentally friendly changes in the physical composition of the unit. All MP3 players can boast about reducing waste from physical copies of music, but the fourth generation Nano can also boast of containg no Brominated Flame Retardant (BFR), a popular chemical used to reduce the flammability of various electronics, which is also banned in many European countries.
In addition, the Nanos are now free of previous trace amounts of mercury as well as PVC. The glass over the screen is also arsenic-free and on the whole the unit is said to be “highly recyclable.” The usual lithium-ion iPod battery is still in use, allowing for longer play time with less charging, and therefore less lost energy.
The G4 appears to be yet another case of Apple reaching for the most innovative and appealing design on the market, but in the end all that really matters is if it plays the music.
I can say that Apple is keeping up with other competition by releasing a new one almost every month. How much does it cost?
It is great to see that Apple is going more green. I love the color choices. I just bought an iPod so don’t foresee getting one soon though.
It starts at $149, about $100 less than an iPod Classic.