Apple unveils new iPods, including gold color options
Apple announced new models of the iPod shuffle, iPod nano, and iPod touch today, July 15. First seen in images noticed in iTunes 12.2, the refresh includes new darker pink and blue, as well as a gold color option for all three iPod models. As we noted previously, sources indicated the refresh would come this week.
The iPod shuffle and iPod nano are more of the same
New iPod nanos
We didn’t see any new features in Apple’s iPod shuffle and iPod nano, but the devices did get the new colors. Sales of these devices have been steadily declining, but Apple continues to sell them for those people who want a separate device just for playing audio and, in the case of the iPod nano, viewing videos and taking pictures.
The iPod touch comes of age
On the other hand, Apple made a major overhaul of the iPod touch. The refreshed device now features a new 64-bit processor chip for faster operation and better graphics for gaming. The device has also been upgraded to include an 8-megapixel camera, bringing it on par with the iPhone 6 and iPad Air 2.
The refreshed iPod touch also includes A8 chip and M8 motion coprocessor from the iPhone, allowing the device to monitor your fitness and steps while also tracking your elevation. The iPod touch will now come preloaded with iOS 8.4 and Apple Music.
Most impressive is the new 128GB model, priced at $399. Other options include the 16GB iPod touch for $199, 32GB model for $249, and a $299 model with 64GB of space.
The iPod’s swan song?
New iPod shuffles
We haven’t seen any upgrades in the iPod lineup for quite some time, since 2012. With Apple focusing on the iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch, I suspect this might be the last upgrade of these devices, at least for a while. In fact, I wonder whether these are the last iPod updates ever. Time will tell, of course.
