We can’t help but get giddy whenever the bright lads from Cupertino put their heads together to come up with snazzy new iPods. The latest updates to the iPod lineup have us satisfied for now. With the only major update being for the Nano.

The fourth generation of the iPod Nano has undergone a true metamorphosis. Gone is the squat design of the 3rd generation, much the delight of naysayers who were never smitten with the design. The new Nano’s design is more reminiscent of the 1st and 2nd generation Nano. In addition to the changed shape Apple has also started offering the new Nano in nine “nanonchromatic” colours ranging from silver-metallic to virtually any colour found on a rainbow!

Adding to the appeal of the exterior of the new Nano is a major overhaul on the internals. Those seeking more capacity will be pleased to note that the Nano now packs an impressive 16 GB of storage all in a 3.81cm (W) by 9.2cm” (T) and 6mm deep design that weighs less than 37 grams! Add to that the same 320-by-240 pixel screen of the last generation Nano (albeit turned 90 degrees) now coated in glass, the ability to record short audio clips, and a spoken menu system, and the new iPod Nano is certainly a dazzling upgrade. With the accelerometer from the Touch now included in this new Nano, turn it sideways and you get the Cover Flow feature. Add to it a shake to shuffle feature for your music and also games designed to make use of this feature.

Some reports though have seen the 4 GB version of the new Nano popping up in some countries. Why?

While the iPod Nano underwent a major overhaul, the iPod Touch received a minor freshening that includes volume controls, an integrated low-fidelity speaker, a slightly curvier case, longer battery life and a warmer cast to the display. Nike have also got in on the act with Nike + iPod Sport Kit. It’s made up of a sensor which communicates wirelessly with your compatible iPod, becoming your personal fitness instructor. Not sure I would bring my Touch around when I exercise though, but as it also works with the Nanos, they might be a better idea for your workout.

Sadly the diminutive Shuffle remains unchanged, albeit having a refresh of their colours, while the venerable iPod Classic is now only available with 120 GB of storage, mysteriously down from the 160 GB of the last generation Classic.

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