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Larger-screen video iPod on the way?

Steve Conaway Labs Manager / Senior Technical Project Manager
I am the Labs Manager for CNET's Home Division based in Louisville, KY. My interest in technology began in the early '90s, and soon after I began my double major in computer science and computer engineering. I've worked in many areas, including computer hardware, software, technology, networking, graphic design, instruction, construction, music and even ballroom dancing! 65% Ron Swanson, 25% Ben Wyatt, 10% Andy Dwyer.
Expertise I've been an outdoor enthusiast my entire life. I also renovate, flip and build houses in my 'spare' time. Paired with our test lab facilities, I write about lots of outdoor related things - portable power stations, tools, etc.
Steve Conaway

Apple Computer is touch-screen happy.

Around seven patents recently have been filed with the United States Patent and Trademark Office on behalf of Apple for touch-sensitive screens. In particular, U.S. Patent Application No. 20060053387 from March 9, 2006 is for "operation of a computer with touch screen interface." Patent No. 20060007222 filed on Jan. 12, 2006 is for an "integrated sensing display."

The touch-screen technology should have applications with the iPod. But how? Rumblings on sites such as Think Secret speculate on a new video iPod with a larger screen that could be released in April, in sync with . Some expect to see two versions of the next video iPod: one that leverages the existing 60GB hard drive, and a slimmer, solid-state version that leverages one or two 8GB to 12GB compact flash cards.

Could the touch screens be a key to Apple's own Origami, an iTablet of sorts? Let's hope it's a lot better than that. Pictures from recent patent applications imply that a tablet would be integrated with iTunes for playing MP3s and video. The standard iPod click wheel would be replaced with a virtual on-screen click wheel. A new iTablet could be a top seller because of Apple's knack for turning coolness into a commodity.