You’ve probably heard the comment that an iPod touch is an iPhone without the phone. Now, there are rumors floating about that may bring the iPod one step closer to actually becoming a phone.
Early this morning, a Dutch blog ran a report that speculates the next generation iPod touch will have the option and hardware for 3G connectivity.
The iPod turns 10-years-old this year so we should see some new innovations, and a possible redesign in honor of this anniversary. While 3G would certainly be an interesting feature in the iPod touch, will it really sell?
In looking at the market for the iPod touch, teenagers are the primary users of the device. They may not have a lot of money, but the money they have is generally used for entertainment and Apple has capitalized on that through this product.
The iPod touch has provided hours of entertainment for teens and a low cost way to stay in touch with friends, especially if mom and dad limit their cell phone usage.
One question yet to be answered is how the data rates will work for the iPod touch. It seems a little expensive to charge the current iPad 3G data rates, especially for a device that is not quite as good. However, $20 - $30 is the going rate on most carriers for any kind of data connection, so more than likely it will be in this price range.
In order for young people to sign up in the U.S. for 3G service, they need to already be on a plan with their parents or they need to be 18. I am not sure parents will be excited about spending the extra $20 - $30 per month to provide their child with a device that is not quite a phone.
Unless carriers are planning to release some type of prepaid data plan or Apple is planning to market their device to those over 18, I am not sure this rumor is one to count on. I think Apple is better off keeping this device inexpensive and limited to Wi-Fi and using it to lure the young user into the world of Apple.
The Dutch blog,
Applespot.nl really has no history in predicting future Apple announcements, but maybe they are trying to get some attention on this one, at least by attracting readers and buzz from other bloggers.
Of course, if the rumor is true, I wonder if they will change the name to iPad nano? My expectations are not very high on this one, but stay tuned as the rumors continue to circulate between now and September.
