Next-Generation iPod nano to be Taller (Zune-Like)?
Zune on left, artist rendition of Nano on right. From iLounge
iLounge reports that the next generation of iPod nano may sport a taller screen, matching the iPhone and iPod touch's screen aspect ratio of 1.5:1 and up from the 1.33:1 aspect ratio found in the current iPod nano display.
To fit the screen and Click Wheel neatly together, the new nano will adopt a form factor that shifts away from the almost square dimensions of the 2007 third-generation nano back towards the general shape of the first- and second-generation models. As one of our sources noted, its a surprise that the new nano will be bigger than the prior model, but the goal appears to be preservation of all of the prior models usability while adding a bigger screen, and there arent many other ways to accomplish that goal.
A vertically-oriented screen suggests that videos would be viewed with the iPod nano turned sideways. iLounge draws comparisons between the new design to Microsoft's Zune MP3 player.iLounge's sources also indicate that a recent rumor of multicolored iPod nanos is "most likely inaccurate" and that each version of the new iPod nano, presumably differing in storage capacity, will be offered in only a single color.
iLounge hasn't traditionally published many rumors but did publish accurate case drawings of the iPhone 3G prior to its release.
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It may be hard to believe, but from what we’ve now heard from multiple sources, it’s true: the fourth-generation iPod nano will look like… a Microsoft Zune. Well, sort of.
Contradicting speculation that Apple was planning to transform the new nano into a miniature iPod touch, complete with a smaller touchscreen, we’ve been told that this year’s nano upgrade will go in a different direction. Described by one source as looking like “a Zune Flash… or whatever it’s called,” the new nano has a vertically (tall) oriented display with a Click Wheel underneath, preserving the button-based control scheme that users have found easiest to use without looking down at the screen. The new nano’s screen will gain the same 1.5:1 widescreen aspect ratio as the iPhone and iPod touch, versus the 1.33:1 ratio of the prior iPod nano and iPod classic, and you’ll rotate the device to watch videos on it.
To fit the screen and Click Wheel neatly together, the new nano will adopt a form factor that shifts away from the almost square dimensions of the 2007 third-generation nano back towards the general shape of the first- and second-generation models. As one of our sources noted, it’s a surprise that the new nano will be bigger than the prior model, but the goal appears to be preservation of all of the prior model’s usability while adding a bigger screen, and there aren’t many other ways to accomplish that goal.
Our sources also indicated that rumors that the device will have a multi-colored body are most likely inaccurate. A single-colored anodized aluminum frame akin to prior iPod nanos will apparently be used, with each nano offered in one color. Obviously, we’ll see what the real story is when Apple introduces the new nano later this year, but our sources are extremely confident in the accuracy of these details.
Link: http://www.ilounge.com/index.php/backstage/comments/ipod-nano-4g-a-zune-alike/
These guys Backstage reports are usually accurate.
I was horrified when I saw the squat iPod nano but as soon as I saw one in the flesh I bought one.
Gonna need to see these "in the metal." Before I pass judgement.
Plus, it just looks like a second generation iPod nano with a longer vertical screen.
The third one, is a bit squarish for me and harder to hold.
If the 4G one is like the 2G one (best case of all IMHO) but a bit taller to facilitate a larger screen and more memory, like the one in the picture above, that would be nice.
What im wondering is what about the play/pause/menu buttons??
Its possible apple makes those buttons LCD lit up...and when you rotat the device, the device senses that an re-arranges the positionin of th buttons
I think that would be pretty neat...
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