Updated iPods Arriving Alongside Next-Generation iPhone

While the highlight of next week's Apple media event will almost certainly be the next-generation iPhone, 9to5Mac reports that updated iPods are also likely to be unveiled at the event.

Details on the updates are scarce, but it appears that Apple will be releasing two or three updated product lines, all of which will be available in multiple colors. Two of the lines appear to correspond to the current iPod shuffle and iPod nano, but it is unclear exactly what the third line represents.

All these new lines will come in multiple colors, one of the lines will come in two size capacities, and the other two lines will come in a single storage capacity.

With the current iPod nanos and iPod shuffles both available in multiple colors (and with the nano currently available in two capacities and the shuffle in one), we think it is likely that new iPod nanos and iPod shuffles are launching next week.

However, it is possible that there is a third line as well (that, too, comes in multiple colors). With the iPod touch currently available in two colors and three capacities (black/white, 8GB, 32GB, 64GB) we don’t believe that the iPod touch is third line that comes in multiple colors.

Amid rumors of a revamped iPod nano with larger screen and home button, the report speculates that the third product could arrive as a new line, allowing Apple to continue offering the current iPod nano design that has gained a following for its small size combined with touchscreen capabilities.

Assuming that the third, unidentified product line is not a revamp of the iPod touch, today's report does not address Apple's plans for its most popular iPod. Apple has been said to be updating it with a 4-inch display similar to the next-generation iPhone's, as well as improved performance and a redesigned body. A front panel with an opening for a 4-inch display said to be for the new iPod touch did leak back in May, but other part leaks for the redesigned iPod touch have been non-existent.