(Review) - As if the iPod Nano didn’t already have a number of flavors, Apple had to release a special edition just for kicks. You can think of the new iPod Nano (PRODUCT) Red as the U2 version of the Nano series. We can’t say we dislike the new (PRODUCT) Red, since it’s quite vibrant and rather unique, yet minimal. Also, the features and specifications are exactly the same as other Nano players, except the (PRODUCT) Red is made for a good cause, which we will get to later in the review.

The second-generation Nano is converged between the now defunct iPod Mini and the first-generation Nano. Physically, Apple has fine tuned its aesthetics with a comparatively slim build, smooth exterior and a flow of classiness. The 1.5-inch backlit display features 176x132 resolution with crisp, bright output that works wonderfully well with photos. You still can’t view video content on the Nano, which might actually be acceptable if it keeps the cost within reason. You do, however, have the option to view photos in slideshow or thumbnail formats. Plus, support for album art is a nice touch as well.

Interestingly enough, Apple is one of the few (if not the only) companies that can win over customers despite offering limited features. For instance, there are no FM recording or tuner options available on the Nano. If it were Samsung or SanDisk doing the same thing, a lot of us would quickly strike them off our recommendation list.

The iPod Nano (PRODUCT) Red is available in 4GB storage capacity that can hold up to 1,000 songs in 128Kbps AAC format. As is the case with other iPods, you can use the special edition as a portable storage device as well. Apple has also introduced skip-free playback functionality with the new iPod series, which essentially means you can play through a group of music tracks without skipping. This option would specifically come in handy with symphonies that are split into various tracks, but were meant to be played in a single sitting. MP3, Apple Lossless and other standard audio formats are supported as well.

The audio quality with the second-generation iPod Nano is amazingly good. Then again, we say with nearly all iPod music players. Throughout our performance tests, which consisted of Classical, Rock, Punk, Jazz and other music genres, the sound quality was crystal, crisp and separated. The battery life lasted about 23:47 hours despite Apple’s 24 hours claim. It’s fairly close, though. The battery should fully recharge in approximately 3 hours (and 80 percent in 1.5 hours for fast-charge), which it did.

The package also contains Apple’s newly redesigned earphones that are more universally compatible than previous versions, and they look nice. They sound nice, too.

Apple’s reasoning behind the highly attractive iPod Nano (PRODUCT) Red special edition is a noble cause - charity. The company has vowed to donate $10 off of each sale of the special edition iPod. Not only do we like the striking appearance of the new iPod Nano, we are also thrilled to be part of a charitable cause. Another thing to note here is that Apple is not charging additional for the special edition. All 4GB models are available immediately for the same price.

There aren’t too many drawbacks to the iPod Nano. Other than the lack of FM tuner and recording options, Apple has substantially improved the second-generation Nano over its predecessor with increased battery life, outstanding aesthetics, and durable exterior at a value price. The special edition iPod Nano (PRODUCT) Red is available immediately in 4GB capacity for $199.00. Needless to say, Apple has gone above and beyond again to outdo its previous product series and has delivered yet another winner in the portable audio player market.