Apple announces new iTunes, iPods

In 2001 Apple introduced the iPod: a 5 gigabyte music player that allowed for "1,000 songs in your pocket." Today, more than 200 million iPods have been sold. And Sunday, Apple, once again, updated its iPod line.

In typical Apple fashion, the company held a invitation-only event to show off sales numbers and its new products.

Apple Chief Executive Officer, Steve Jobs took the stage after taking a leave of absence to deal with health issues. Jobs introduced a new iPod Touch and iPhone software update as well as a new iTunes version.

The biggest feature in the new iPod firmware is the ability to purchase pre-made ringtones. And the new iTunes offers a radically re-designed store with a cleaner look. iTunes will also allow for what Apple calls "home sharing," which enables the user to share his or her iTunes library with up to 5 computers in his/her home. Both the new software update and the new iTunes can be downloaded for free.

Phil Schiller, one of Apple's vice presidents, announced the arrival of new iPod touches. Apple claims that the new touches are 50 percent faster than the previous model. This increased speed will allow for smoother game play. Besides the speed increase, cheaper prices, and larger storage, the new iPod Touch is basically the same as its predecessor. The new iPod Touch starts at $199.

Both iPod Classic and the iPod Shuffle received a storage boost.

The iPod Shuffle will also be available in new colors: black, silver, blue, green, and pink. And a special edition Shuffle that is polished stainless steel will be available. The Nanos start at $149.

The new iPod Nano has been changed the most, offering up new colors, a larger screen, FM radio and a video camera built in. For more information on the new products announced by Apple, check out their Web site.

By Tyler Wells