Technology

iPod Nano

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Digital music players have been around for quite some time now. For the buyer there are an obscene number of models to choose from.

The discerning user, the gigabyte hogger, the gadget freak, the techy and the music DJ are just a few of the bunch that make up this market. But, in a highly complex digital lifestyle it is hardly sufficient to have just ‘any’ music player. You’ll need an iPod – distinct, sexy and very trendy. If you’re still thinking the iPod is cool you should check out the newest model to hit the market – the nano.

The Apple iPod nano is a hybrid of the previous iPods. It's got the disk capacities of the iPod mini, the flash based disk system of the iPod Shuffle and is featured with a colour LCD like the full-sized iPod. But, hold the nano in your hand it will stun you with its size, weight and looks. Yes, like with its predecessors, you can still boast! As you might expect, it is as good as any other iPod.

Yet, the nano is thinner than a standard #2 pencil and is sized smaller than your business card. It weighs about 42 grams. At this size it still manages 4 gigabytes of skip-free memory, a marvellous inch and a half sized colour LCD for photo viewing and a battery that claims to provide 14 hours of use.

Like other iPods the nano relies on the included iTunes software for syncing music. A USB cable is also included that will sync and charge your nano. Using hi-speed USB or what is known as USB 2.0, the sync is fast. The nano also uses USB to charge itself up. There are no included accessories for direct connection to a power outlet although Apple has a power-based system for all its iPod models.

The nano includes a few new features in the software. A Stopwatch to help you while you’re jogging, Screen Lock, multiple clocks and a lyrics screen to the Now Playing area where you can add lyrics to your favourite songs.

The nano is available in two colours; black and iPod white, with a choice of 2GB (500 songs) or 4 GB (1000 songs) in disk capacities. Apple.com prices them at $199 and $249 respectively. In the box you will find: one iPod nano, earbud headphones, USB 2.0 cable, dock adapter, iTunes software CD-ROM (PC/Mac) and a quick start guide.

iPod nano features

  • Holds up to 1000 songs or 25000 photos
  • Weight: 1.5 ounces (42.5 gms)
  • Dimensions: 3.5 x 1.6 x 0.27 inches
  • 1.5 inch Bright Colour LCD Display
  • Up to 14 hours of battery life
  • Charges and syncs via USB
  • Flash Based Disk system, skip free music
  • Plays MP3 and AAC formats