All Image Courtesy: Archos

Here comes another iPod Mini competitor, welcome the Archos Gmini XS 100. The Gmini XS 100 features a 3GB hard drive with a USB 2.0 interface for rapid file transfer speeds. It supports MP3, WMA, WAV and DRM WMA audio formats for compatibility across the board. Archos has made the player interesting in that it has Archos’ Double Browser. It’s basically a music management application that organizes music files on the Gmini XS 100. Also via the browser, you can make playlists without a computer, organize songs with ARClibrary, and customize your view by album, artist, genre, title and year.

Physically, the Gmini XS 100 has a 1.5" LCD screen with 128x128 of resolution. It also has 14 hours of battery lifespan with a stereo analog and line out jack. This device is equipped with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can be recharged with a USB connector. You can also purchase an optional AC power adapter should you choose to charge it without a PC.

The package includes a USB 2.0 cable, the device itself, headphones, quick start guide and an in-depth manual on Gmini XS 100 hard drive. The Gmini XS is available in four colors including volcanic black, techno blue, funky pink and ice gray.

The average price of the Archos Gmini XS 100 is $159.99.

Initial Thoughts: Although Archos’ intentions are to compete against Apple’s iPod Mini with the Gmini XS 100, unfortunately it lacks in that regard. Unlike other competitive players, it does not have a FM tuner, voice or in-line recording or a slider "Hold" button. These are few of the features that are integrated in almost every player that’s making its way to this competitive arena.

With that said, the battery life appears to be decent with an Archos browser that enables features that otherwise require a computer. Although the idea of making playlists on the go has been around for sometime, unfortunately many manufacturers have decided to exclude this feature unless you use a PC to get it working, which is somewhat of a nuisance if you constantly like to make playlists. The remaining features appear to be standard, and needless to say, the four-color choices are definitely attractive with what Archos has in mind.