New iPods set for launch

Release Date:4 Sep,2008

From:http://www.metro.co.uk

By: metro.co.uk

keyword: Apple iTunes

Apple looks set to unleash its new range of iPods on the world next week at a specially-arranged worldwide event.

The technology giant is well known for seeking to create industry buzz ahead of new launches and appears to have done exactly that with its forthcoming secretive 'Let's Rock' event.

Members of the media were emailed last night inviting them to the event on Tuesday September 9. The invite included a picture of a man listening to an iPod and jumping in the air.

The UK event is being held in north London and involves a live video cast from San Francisco, prompting speculation of a major launch.

Analysts predict that the launch could be for a new version of the iPod touch – Apple's touch-sensitive high-end music player which also offers internet access through wireless networks.

With the hotly-anticipated release of the iPhone 3G earlier this summer leading to a major price cut on handsets, the iPod Touch now seems relatively expensive in comparison.

Apple has remained quiet on what exactly the event will involve but speculation suggests a price cut to the iPod Touch could be the headline announcement.

"Pricing needs to be adjusted downward toward market conditions. We are in a tougher economy. That's what makes most sense," American Technology Research analyst Shaw Wu said.

In the UK, the iPod Touch 8GB generally sells for about £200 with the 16GB version about £60 more expensive.

Other suggested announcements at the launch include a new version of the cheaper iPod Shuffle or a slimmer, sleeker version of the popular iPod Nano.

Apple Chief Executive Steve Jobs confirmed in June that the company was working on a range of new products for release this year but no details have yet been confirmed.