iPod All About

With technology always changing, it is sometimes hard to keep up with the latest. During the holidays you probably saw advertisements for iPods and mp3 players, etc. Maybe you even had a child who was asking for one, but you weren’t too sure what an iPod is much less what you should buy. Well, here is some information on the latest products on the market. Apple has released a few new iPods. The iPod Nano comes with a bright color 1.5” LCD screen with an unbelievable small design. The Nano is available in black or white and in 2GB (500 songs) and 4 GB (1000 songs) configurations. It also has he ability to store video and pictures. But due to its small screen size it really isn’t optimal for the above applications. Just make sure you get a case for your Nano since they are prone to scratching.

Apple has also released two new hard drive version iPods, the 30GB (7500 songs) and 60GB (15000 songs) both versions are also available in black or white. The larger 2.5” LCD display makes this model optimal for viewing pictures, music videos or your favorite television shows. The iPods really have the ability for you to take all your music and pictures with you anywhere you go. They also have the ability to hook up to a television for a photo slideshow you can share with anyone.

The iTunes music store has moved forward also. It has over 2 million songs available plus music videos, television shows, podcasts and audio books. Podcasts are something new, they give you the ability to subscribe to audio shows like ABC news, ESPN or the latest film reviews and have them downloaded to your iPod on a daily basis.

Even if you already have an iPod there are many accessories available. Maybe you need a new pair of headphones for the audiophile in your life? Try the Shure E3c or Etymotic ER-6i headphones. A good place to view reviews on all the products would be www.ilounge.com. They will give you a good head start on what is available for the iPod-lover in your life. Happy iPodding.

by Frank Altieri
As printed in Refresh and Renew magazine, Feb/Mar 2006