The Good
Bigger screen
Video support
Slimmer case
The Bad
Relatively small storage capacity
The Price
US$149-$199
When Apple releases new iPod models, sometimes all they change is how much storage the model offers. Other times, all they change is everything. With the third-generation iPod nano, Apple changed everything and it’s a welcome change.
The iPod nano occupies the middle ground of the iPod line-up these days – not quite as small or light as the Shuffle, but with a smaller screen and less storage capacity than the Classic or touch. Nevertheless, the iPod nano 3rd generation model is a fine little iPod.
Previous nano models had been taller than wide and sported small screens to reflect that they only played music. They were light and affordable and made for great starter iPods. While the new iPod nano is also a great starter iPod, it does a lot more than its predecessors.
Like every iPod, the third generation iPod nano of course stores and plays music very well. This model offers both 4GB and 8GB of storage. While this won’t contain most music libraries, it handily holds thousands of favorite songs. The new iPod software that powers this model offers CoverFlow browsing (not hugely useful on such a small screen, but as always, very pretty) and customizable menus.
The major changes in the iPod nano 3rd generation come in the case and video support.
This nano is square where earlier models were rectangular. The change, which makes the nano thinner and lighter than ever before, is designed to accommodate the larger screen.
This nano has a 2-inch screen. The screen is bigger because, for the first time, the iPod nano can play video. The third generation iPod nano can play video rented or bought from the iTunes Store or converted using third-party programs. The video is shockingly clear and sharp given the small screen and generally looks great.
Some frustration will likely ensue when watching movies with wide shots or in widescreen, and since feature-length movies tend to weigh in around 1GB, the lack of storage space on the device will also cause some consternation.
Still, this re-invention of the iPod nano is, generally, top-notch. If you’re not ready to spend the hundreds of dollars that an iPod Classic requires, want a screen, and would prefer a tiny, light iPod, the iPod nano 3rd generation is the model you should check out.
