Apple iPod Video

Slashdot It! Is the iPod's crown safe from Microsoft? The feeling is, yes. It is still far smaller and more elegant than the Zune, has a bigger screen, and is much easier to use. If Apple can keep the price down, the new iPod video is a commuter's dream and will storm the market. The product, which is scheduled for UK release in January 2007, will cost US$512 and could be the iPod to propel Apple into the TV and movie market -- and cancel out Microsoft's Zune. Features

Screen: The Apple iPod Video is expected to have a 3.5 inch wide touchscreen with sharp enough colors to make episodes of "Lost" look as good as they do on TV.

Turn the iPod Video's touchscreen 90 degrees and the entire front of the device becomes a widescreen -- and you'll get a great view.

Wireless: Built-in WiFi lets users download new TV shows, movies and other multimedia content while you work or sleep. Thankfully, this will put an end to plugging the unit into your desktop computer to update your music and video library.

Scroll Wheel: It's not the end for the scroll wheel -- which makes the iPod so easy to use -- but instead of a real wheel, you'll get a "virtual" onscreen scroll wheel along with menus that appear identical to the old iPod.

Software: Apple's iTunes Store has already been updated to sell films and TV, so it should stay largely the same and be as easy to use. In addition to downloading films, you can subscribe to TV shows, with new episodes downloaded as soon as they are broadcast.

TV Output: While Apple recently showed off a new set-top box that plugs into your TV to play back film and music, the iPod Video will also plug into your TV, giving you big-screen action at home.