Apple unveils the very tiny iPod Nano

According to Steve Jobs, the is the "biggest revolution since the original iPod." It's certainly a technical and design wonder at 3.5 by 1.6 by 0.3 inches and 1.5 ounces. That's 0.3 inch thick and 1.5 ounces! It's smaller than it looks in photos. The flash-based Nano (the name is curiously similar to Creative Zen Nano Plus) comes in classic white or black and in two capacities: 2GB and 4GB (the first 4GB flash player we know of!).

Some more details: The iPod Nano replaces the current iPod Mini line; it can store and display photos like its bigger mates; and users can view multiple clocks, which dim during evening local time. It has a dock connector, so it's compatible with lots of accessories; a lap timer; a stopwatch; a combination screen lock; USB 2.0; and a 14-hour rechargeable battery. And it ships today, although it won't be available in stores for a few days.

Our take? The iPod Nano is a design marvel with only a hold switch on top and a dock connector and headphone jack on the bottom. The headphone jack is actually in an awkward place; however, it's convenient for those who will use the new lanyard accessory. Battery life isn't outstanding, but the unit is incredibly small--so we're not too concerned. We love the fact that it is a miniature iPod Photo and that you can exercise with it guilt-free, thanks to a solid-state flash memory. Finally, the price: By today's standards, the iPod Nano is expensive at $249 for the 4GB version and $199 for the 2GB version. The 6GB iPod Mini costs $249, but it is going to sell big because of its size. Other 2GB models are selling for more than $200, so for a flash-based player, the Nano is not too bad. In addition, iTunes 5.0 was launched today, and it has some nice streamlined features, though no major overhauls.