Some Thoughts About the New Generation of iPods

Within the last few days the Apple rumor mill is buzzing (is there actually a time where its not buzzing?) with an upcoming Apple Event (Sept 5). Now it seems pretty apparent that Apple will probably be announcing the next generation of iPods at this event. So its time to speculate... because what's the fun in waiting and hearing from his Jobiness himself. So here are the things that are likely to happen to the product line.

iPod Nano - will get the video treatment along with a larger screen size. I'd expect some form of an scroll wheel, but I'm not sure if a physical scroll wheel will allow for a larger screen;I'm guessing the range of the video iPod size.

iPod (Video) - this will probably get the full glass treatment and has the highest probably of getting some version of OS X. Expect these to be hard drive based and as usual have a decent storage capacity upgrade. I don't think WiFi or Bluetooth are likely since it would make it too iPhone like. I'd also expect a special edition version as well, maybe we'll finally see the Beatles iPod.

iPod Shuffle - I wouldn't expect anything really exciting about this product expect for higher storage capacity and probably more colors.

iPhone - 3G model will see simultaneous release in Europe and the USA in early to mid 2008.

iTunes Store - more movie and video content, iTunes HD gets released and corresponding store goes live the same day. Games for touchscreen devices.

Okay so those are the same rumors that everyone else has been throwing around so now let's have some fun and just make up some fun what ifs.

iPod Video - Product line is put to bed in favor of a new design and "Face" of the iPod product line the iPod Touch or something like that.

iPod Touch (Full touch screen) - this iPod will have definite iPhone influences but will probably come in classic iPod white and also come in black that will cost $50-100 dollars more (Hello Apple tax). Supports multi touch and mini OS X, meaning new cover flow interface. New form factor brings more device convergence, so the iPod now has IR and supports expanded FrontRow (Bluetooth/Wireless would work too, but not likely due to lack of support for AppleTV). No Internet but we may get wireless based iTunes Store access. (Just to make all other online music stores seem really dated) .

iPod Nano - similar full glass implementation (maybe time to invest in some glass companies?) and multi touch. Expect video support and higher flash memory for storage. Also get built in Bluetooth support for data streams and Bluetooth stereo headphones. I'd also expect to hear about new partnerships with other Sports wear companies Adidas and Reebok will add support for iPod pedometer in some of their new running shoe lines.

iPod Shuffle - gets mini multi touch display that allows you to flip through mini cover flow images.

iTunes Store - Apple announces funding for Indie label X, who will do major of distribution through iTunes. New iTunes HD gets released that allows HD TV Shows to be streamed. iPod Touch version also gets released.

iPhone - new version planned for FY08 will coincide with Europe launch. 3G support, GPS, and more flash storage. Announcement iPhone SDK beta and upcoming plan to allow true third party iPhone applications.

Alright so there you have it. Now note, other than the Apple Event Scheduled for Sept. 5, I have no clue what Apple is actually going to announce, so pretty much all of the above is speculation and should no way be considered factual.