What’s So Different About Apple’s New Entry Level 16GB iPod touch?
by Dom Esposito
June 2, 2013
If you haven’t heard, Apple recently released a new version of the fifth generation iPod touch. This 16GB model will replace the fourth generation going forward. Apple decided to bring a low-cost iPod touch with updated internals to the market, but without a few features in order to cut down costs.
This is a fifth generation iPod touch with a few modifications, but it’s better to think of it as a replacement for the fourth generation model. If you'd like to know how the new 16GB iPod touch compares to the 32/64GB fifth generation models, we've put together an in-depth comparison video.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZaBO9o9yYIM
If you can't see the above video, please click this link.
One feature that has been omitted in this new entry level 16GB iPod touch is the rear camera. This slight change doesn’t sit well with a lot of people, but in my opinion, the camera on the fourth generation iPod touch wasn’t even worth having in the first place. The rear camera on the fourth generation iPod touch was only 0.7 megapixels. It can be argued that the FaceTime HD camera on the new 16GB iPod touch is technically better as it takes 1.2 megapixel photos. You’re not getting the same low-light capture abilities as the higher capacity fifth generation model's rear camera, but I prefer the updated hardware inside of this iPod touch over the internals found in the fourth generation. Along with the removal of the rear camera, Apple also removed the Loop accessory which makes the 32/64GB models easier to use as a point and shoot camera. With the modified fifth generation model, you’re also getting the same IPS display that’s used on the iPhone 5. This type of display is very crisp and provides a much better viewing angle than the display in its predecessor. It’s also notable that the lock and volume buttons are plastic on this model. On the higher capacity fifth generation models, these buttons are made out of aluminum. That may not be a big deal to some people, but it’s worth a mention. Overall, I think this fourth generation replacement is a better device. It’s future proof to an extent, and like I said above, you’re getting better internal hardware with this revised model. It may lack a camera, but it will be able to take advantage of more features in future versions of iOS. The revised fifth generation 16GB iPod touch is available now for $229 in stores or on Apple's website. Check out the video overview above and be sure to let us know how to feel about this new iPod touch in the comments section. Do you prefer the older model, or the faster and revised fifth generation iPod touch?
