iPod Nano

This week's announcement of new iPods piqued my interest not only as a lover of shiny, new toys, but also as a runner. The two smallest versions, the new iPod Shuffle and iPod Nano, are even more perfect for running (and other exercises). Here's why:

• The new Nano is tiny. — At just over 1 1/2 inches wide and just under 1 1/2 inches high, the new Nano is considerably smaller than the previous version — it's almost half the size! And it also weighs half as much as the previous version.
• The Shuffle's buttons are back. — The most recent version of the Shuffle was, in my opinion, a runner's nightmare. The design was sleek, but there were no buttons on the device itself, making it incredibly difficult to use with any other headphones other than the ones that came with the device. Now, the same familiar circular set of buttons have made a comeback.

There are more reasons to love 'em! Check out the rest after the break.

One of the most exciting parts of yesterday's new iPod announcement was the introduction of a completely redesigned iPod Nano ($149). Gone is the traditional Apple click wheel — the iPod Nano now features a large multitouch screen to organize and play your favorite music.

I was impressed and to prove it, here are five reasons it's worth preordering a new iPod Nano:

• It's smaller, lighter, and more portable than any other Nano. The latest generation is nearly half as big and weighs nearly half as much as the previous iPod Nano. And it features a Shuffle-like clip to attach it to your jacket, shirt, pocket. . . whatever. No more armbands!
• A rotating screen keeps controls accessible. The iPod itself clips onto you easily, so to make the controls easy to reach, images on the square screen rotate when you turn them using two fingers. There's no motion sensor, so the screen won't flip back around like an iPhone's if you move the Nano. You can position the screen completely upside down while it's clipped to your pocket, or sideways when it's clipped to a shoulder strap.

Find out the rest of the reasons I heart the new Nano after the break

During today's Apple event, Steve Jobs announced all new designs for every iPod — the biggest design overhaul in iPod history.

iPod Shuffle
The latest Shuffle is a combination of all of the best features from the previous three models; while the last version of the Shuffle was missing buttons, the newest version brings back the familiar controls from the second-generation shuffle, but in a smaller, more compact design. The newest Shuffle also features all of the loved features from the most recent generation: voice over that tells you what you're listening to and when the battery needs to be charged, and playlists (including the introduction of Genius Playlists) that sort your music for easy listening on the go. The new Shuffle supports 15 hours of music and comes in five colors. It'll cost you $49 for 2GB of storage.

The new Nano and iPod Touch are even more exciting — find out details after the break.

There's quite a bit brewing in the mobile world of Apple this morning, with hints about the entire iPod line getting a new refresh, a smaller iPad, and even a new iPhone said to be launching next year. Of course, these rumors are unconfirmed, but it's always fun to speculate on what's to come. Let's dive right in, shall we?

• iPod Touch — Word has it that three new iPods could be released in September. First, a small touchscreen iPod to replace the shuffle (which could explain the mysterious LED piece that was uncovered last month), a new iPod Nano, and a new iPod Touch. A new camera-packed iPod Touch is pretty much a sure bet at this point, especially now that photos of what looks to be the new casing have leaked.
• New iPad — We've been expecting a camera to come with the next-gen iPad for some time now, and this morning an insider has released hints of a smaller, seven-inch iPad, which is expected to hit in early 2011.

Hear the rest of the rumors, which include the iPhone 5 and new Apple Bumpers, after the break.

Although Macworld is still a few weeks away, I'm getting excited to see some of the new, stylish (and sometimes weird) products at the expo. One that piqued my interest was UrbanTool. Hailing from Austria, UrbanTool brings us a huge selection of iPod and iPhone savvy bags and cases that not only have some serious street style, but are functional as well. Each holster and belt comes stocked with an iPod control panel so you can switch up your tunes without whipping out your player. The belt cases and holsters have room for your cell phones and wallets, while the bags can hold more of your junk while keeping it safe with their cross-body designs. The best part? They're affordable with prices starting at around $40.

I'll get a chance to check out UrbanTool's new Jean design at Macworld, which is sure to bring some attention to your wardrobe. But my overall favorite so far? The Urban Performer Unit, a black leather electronic clutch that's studded with Swarovski crystals. Hot!

Check out more pics of UrbanTool when you read more