There was some truth to the rumors. Today, Apple announced the new “fat” video iPod nano (not their descriptor), the new “classic” iPod, and the drool-worthy iPod Touch.

The caveat to the Touch is the small storage capacity. Many people wanted a high capacity, touch screen iPod... however, the more I think about it, the more I think that such a device is impractical.

Unless you are more of a video guy than an audio one... and you want your entire movie collection with you.

My 20-gigabyte 3G iPod is bursting at the seams, so that I’ll be moving to an 8-gigabyte/16-gigabyte device is a little disconcerting. I’m leaning towards the smaller model, in which case I’ll keep my archaic iPod in service a while longer.

I’ll be more selective with what’s on the smaller iPod. It’s time to seriously reconsider what music I “have to have” on my iPod anyway.

I’m still loving the new Ozzy album, by the way!

When I purchased my iPod nano two years ago, I bought it with the idea that I would only load it with workout tunes, and a couple of favorite playlists for a couple of different moods. That formula has served me well, but I find that removing songs that are on it is tough than expected, so it is bursting right now as well.

Perhaps I’ll build a “smart playlist” that will do that work for me. After all, if I frequently skip a song, or blatantly ignore it for n days, why am I keeping it on there?

Good question, eh?

The features that clinch the Touch for me are the Wi-Fi internet access, cover flow, and the uber-cool photo gallery.

And I can see a use for some of the video features.

I will love being able to utilize any Wi-Fi hotspot without dragging out my iBook every time. W00t!

However, one hesitation I'm having is this... should I just get the iPhone and hack it to the T-Mobile network? Apple sensed the competition the new iPod would create, and knocked $200 off of the iPhone price... making this idea more tempting.

That might be more work than I want to deal with.

Anyway, I have something to look forward to now. I'll be pre-ordering soon!

On a related note, I present the news nugget of the day (from Playlist mag ):

Both companies took jabs at each other in their statements. Apple called NBC’s suggested pricing change a “dramatic price increase.” NBC responded thus: “It is clear that Apple’s retail pricing strategy for its iTunes service is designed to drive sales of Apple devices, at the expense of those who create the content that make these devices worth buying.”

Wow, now I love a couple of NBC’s shows (The Office, My Name Is Earl), but they are hardly “the content that makes these devices worth buying.” Apple was selling a shitload of iPods before the video feature was even an option.

It’s still primarily a music player. If the #4 network in the nation wants to pull it’s programmes from iTunes... I say, “See ya!”

Sheesh!

What i'm listening to:

Civilize the Universe
Ozzy Osbourne
Black Rain