With the recent release of the newest iPods in all their shiny colorful glory there seems to be a bit of frustration among iPod owners and enthusiasts.  The 2nd generation design was the longest running and what most people seem to have.  Then along came the cute rounded, more square shape of the 3rd generation Nano (pictured at right) and hearts were all a flutter over this new sleek, smooth design.

So, when last week’s 4th generation iPod release was unveiled and we all saw that the shape is more rectangular like the 2nd generation again, well a lot of folks were frustrated.  If you have any kind of accessories, skins, cases, etc you’ll have to replace those to fit the new new iPod.

And the new shape dimensions don’t exactly match the 2nd generation, but they are very close.  The front and back look more rounded than flat so that it’s sort of oval shaped going around than flat.   They’re calling this the”curved” look, and it’s supposed to improve the video viewing experience.

Don’t like the song you’re listening to or just not in the mood for that song right now?  No problem.  Just shake the new iPod and it will shuffle to a different song.   I’m hoping this feature isn’t too sensitive!  I’m not sure this is a feature I’d use in the new iPod either, but at least if I see kids walking down the street shaking the heck out of their iPod I’ll know what they’re doing.

The new accelerometer technology that comes built in and let’s you turn your iPod sideways and still view the video you’re watching is pretty cool.  Though, I’m not sure how completely useful it is, because I don’t go turning things back and forth very often.  Regardless of its level of usefulness, it is pretty cool.

I’ve been hearing mixed reviews about the new Genius Playlist feature as well.  It’s supposed to find songs that will go together harmonously and group them up and play them for you.  Now, I haven’t had a chance to test this feature out in person yet, so I can only go by what others are saying online.  It seems to be one of those things you either love and use all the time or hate and never even bother using.

The new color additions to the iPod Nano family were pleasantly received of course.  Who wouldn’t want a yellow or orange iPod after all?  And with starting prices at $149 for 8GB this generation of iPod is more affordable than it’s predecessors have been.  So, pick your favorite color and give it a try.

Posted on September 21st, 2008 by loretta