Apple iPod Touch

(First Look) - This week, we have published our review of the 3rd generation iPod Nano and iPod Classic and came away impressed with both units. However, it will be some time before we can get a hold of the iPod Touch, but we don't expect to be wowed at all. After all, it's just an iPhone with phone integration stripped out. However, one thing is for sure, Apple listened to its user base and delivered an appetizing music player that's far ahead of anything others can offer. If you thought Creative, iRiver and others were catching up to Apple, think again.

The device features a gorgeous 3.5-inch display with touchscreen controls to browse through a plethora of albums, photos and just about everything else with a quick tap on the scratch-free display. Unlike the iPhone, Apple's iPod Touch is slightly slimmer, which is all too wonderful. Of course, you can't forget about the integrated WiFi option, built-in Safari browser and access to iTunes' entire catalog right at your fingertips, literally. It's perhaps the best iPod ever to integrate with iTunes. You can browse through the entire iTunes catalog, purchase content from the unit, connect it to your PC and sync away. That's how easy the entire process is. Apple is the new Coke with a hidden formula for success that only Steve Jobs can access. Really, how cool can Apple get! Is there a limit to this company's creativity? We are tired for praising it, but Apple shows no sign of fatigue. We say keep it going, Apple, keep it going.

Apple iPhone Review

Unfortunately, despite the integrated WiFi option, Google Maps and a dedicated e-mail client are missing from the main navigation menu, which, by the way, is identical to iPhone. Why, oh why, Apple must you do this? Things were going so well until you had to skip on a couple of features. Pity!

Despite our excitement for the iPod Touch, we don't expect the audio quality to rock our world, considering Apple's lack of support in this area. Nonetheless, this is going to be one heck of a device when it shows up on retail shelves later this month for $399.99 for the 16GB version. Better start saving for the holiday season if you want to get your hands on this beauty.

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