Electronics Articles

When it comes to no-brainer gift giving, a universally coveted present is the Apple iPod Nano. It's in the middle of Apple's family of MP3 players and portable digital media devices that store songs, photos and video clips for your listening and viewing delight. If the Shuffle is too small, and the the Classic iPod is too big, the Nano fits perfectly in terms of size, price and media capacity. The iPod Nano was first introduced by Apple in 2005, and has since undergone quite a facelift. Today's Nano is worlds apart from the discontinued model it was meant to replace, the oh-so lackluster iPod Mini.

What are the features of the iPod Nano?

The Nano has the traditional iPod wheel interface and a 2" LCD screen for viewing video clips, TV shows and movies. 2" sounds like a small screen, but it's big enough to get lost in your favorite TV episode. Since it has USB connectivity and Flash memory, there are no movable parts. Flash memory means that unlike other models, there's virtually no way a song is ever going to skip using this device. Manage your Apple iPod Nano media storage with access to the iTunes Store. For those uninitiated to iTunes, it's the internet's version of a record store except you download songs, movies, TV shows and games.

How's the battery life?

The iPod Nano runs on a standard rechargeable lithium ion battery. If you're only listening to audio, it'll actually last about 24 hours in between charges. Since video clips use a bit more battery life, expect about 5 hours of usage if you plan on having your Nano double as a TV set. Charging the battery is merely a matter of docking the USB 2.0 port into a computer. You can also get adapters that enable you to charge it in a regular wall outlet, or even in your car.

How many songs can the iPod Nano store at a time?

The third generation of iPod Nano comes in a silver 4GB version and in an 8 GB model (six colors available). Here's the basic breakdown according to Apple:

4 GB, 1,000 songs, 3,500 photos, 4 hours of video; $149

8 GB, 2,000 songs, 7,000 photos, 8 hours of video; $199

These estimates are based on an average song length of 4 minutes. Unless you listen to the thing 24 hours a day, you probably won't have to upload new songs for at least a month or two. As for the photos, unless you're a photographer, you don't even own 3,500 photos. Video clips should be swapped out frequently, however, since they do burn a lot of hard drive space.

It's so tiny. Won't it break easily?

The iPod Nano is surprisingly durable for such a delicate looking device. While ordinary abuse probably won't break it, the screens have been known to get scratched up beyond all recognition if thrown in the same pocket as a handful of change and keys. Dropping it in the toilet is not recommended (this happens more frequently than you would think) but you can get a lanyard to guard against such accidents. You don't have to look very far to find plenty of leather, vinyl and even pleather iPod Nano cases out there to help keep your iPod Nano protected from the elements, or yourself.

What colors does it come in?

As far as appearances go, the iPod Nano is small, sleek and very well designed. It has the signature anodized aluminum top with a stainless steel back (that doubles as a shaving mirror). Colors for the iPod nano include black, silver, pink, blue, green and (PRODUCT)RED. Product RED refers to brands that donate money to the global fight against AIDS, tuberculosis and malaria. You've probably heard U2's Bono and Oprah touting this charity. If you buy the Special Edition iPod Nano in red, people will know you're helping a good cause.

Originally, the iPod Nano MP3 player was a different shape, partly because video capability wasn't available yet. When it was first introduced, you could get a 1, 2, or 4 GB iPod Nano MP3 player in black or white. This incredibly slender device is still popular with those who don't need or want video capability with their iPod. It's almost as small as the Shuffle, but with more browsing options and storage (if you get the 2GB or 4 GB versions). The second generation version added more color options, with the iPod Nano 4GB MP3 player available in pink, blue, green, and silver, and red. The second generation 2GB version was only available in silver, and the 8 GB version was available in black and red.

I want my music everywhere.

There are a wide variety of iPod Nano headphones and other iPod Nano accessories and cords available. Your iPod Nano can also be used with transmitters and speakers, just as the iPod Classic can. Your Nano can come with you on the road, or play DJ next time you have a party. Plus, you can charge your Nano in your car, with the right accessories of course.

Lovers of the iPod Nano find the sleek design, compact size, media versatility and ability to break out the Nano no matter where they are all combine to make the Nano a cherished member of the iPod family.