Apple"s Sept. 9, 2009 " It"s Only Rock and Roll" iPod Media Event Announcements
Fifth Generation iPod nano
The changes that come in the 5th generation iPod nano are major, and include the addition of a video camera, a built-in FM tuner, pedometer with Nike+ syncing, and Genius Mix support.
More on the fifth generation iPod nano
The new models cost US$149 for 8GB and $179 for 16GB.
Third Generation iPod touch
This revision of the iPod touch is not major but adds more processor speed and capacity. The 3rd generation touch uses the same enclosure as the 4th generation model. Not included was the long-rumored camera that many had expected to debut on the touch.
More on the third generation iPod touch
The new models cost US$199 for 8GB, $299 for 32GB, and $399 for 64GB.
iTunes 9
The new version of iTunes adds features including:
- A redesigned iTunes Store
- iTunes LP - a new offering that includes music, liner notes, photos, text, and more. No word yet on pricing.
- Facebook and Twitter integration to let users post media links to those social media services
- Improved syncing options for iPod and iPhone
- Improved management of movies and App Store programs on the desktop, not just on the iPhone or iPod
- The ability to re-arrange the iPhone or iPod touch homescreen from the desktop, not just the device
- Genius Mixes - an add on to the iTunes Genis feature to create great playlists
- Easy sharing of media between computers in the same house
- Extras content for movies from the iTunes Store
It is available as a free download from Apple's website or through the Software Update tool built into the Mac OS and iTunes.
iPhone OS 3.1
The latest update to the software that powers the iPhone and iPod touch is free and adds the following features:
- App Store Genius. Like the Genius feature for music, this tool recommends App Store programs based on what the user has previously enjoyed.
- New Ringtones. While previous ringtones were user-creatable through iTunes, users can now buy pre-made ringtones from record labels through the included iTunes Store app.
It is available today through the traditional iPhone software update process.
Updated iPod Shuffle
While the iPod Shuffle wasn't changed so much as to get a new generation, changes included: the availability of new colors, a 2GB model for $59, and a special edition stainless steel model, offering 4GB for $99.
Updated iPod Classic
Apple updated the capacity and price of the iPod Classic to a 160GB hard drive for US$249.