| | Introduction
The first iPod Nano was released in 2005 to much hype and
media frenzy. The Nano is the midrange model of the iPod series,
above the Shufffle, but below the Classic. With it's introduction,
the Nano replaced the iPod Mini line of models. And also become
the fastest selling iPod in history. The key reason for replacing
the Mini with the Nano was flash memory. The Mini used a Microdrive
hard disk, whereas the Nano was one of the first iPod's to
use flash memory.
The advantage
of flash memory is that it consumes less power, and does not suffer from skipping.
Using flash memory also enabled Apple to build an iPod which weighed just 1.5
oz and measured only 3.5 in - 1.6 in - 0.27 in dimension. The slimline nature
of the Nano became the key reason for the hype surrounding it's release, with
many media publications noting that it was barely larger than a credit card.
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The first generation Nano was not without controversy however.
Apple decided to solder it's battery to the circuit board,
making manual replacement problematic. Whereas, with the Mini,
opposite was the case. The worst criticism of the Nano was
over it's overall build quality and LCD display. Many users
reported that the LCD screen scratched with little provocation,
and to such a degree that little content was legible to the
eye. Even though Apple agreed to replace a number of 'supposed'
faulty models, many owners were so disgruntled that they created
a class action lawsuit against Apple.
Apple had obviously listened to the complaints,
releasing a scratch resistant casing for the second generation Nano. But the slimline
nature of the Nano still posed the same problem, with tests indicating that the
second generation Nano would break after falling once onto a hard surface. The
third generation Nano was the first model capable of playing video files, with
a wider and heavier design, it combines aluminum and stainless steel in it's casing.
Apple obviously thought it's squashed down heavier design did not capture the
imaginations of the public however. Because the fourth generation Nano
has made a return to a narrow design, and is the lightest and thinnest Nano to
date, weighing just 1.3 oz. Also referred to as the 'Nano Chromatic', it comes
in nine colours, such as hot pink. The casing also arches, which is a first. Alongside
the cosmetic changes, the fourth generation Nano has a selection of new software
features. Two of these are, iTunes 'Genius', which selects songs that fit well
together and creates a playlist, and 'Shake to Shuffle', which moves to a new
song with a flick of the wrist. Recent reviews have commented on the improved
functionality and personality of the 4G in comparison to the 3G. But, some people
have commented on the plastic finish, believing it looks cheap, or worse still,
like a cheap fake knockoff. And noting the continued lack of wireless streaming,
a memory card slot or a built in speaker. 
Alternatives to the fourth generation iPod Nano
Whilst few people could find fault with the design, ease
of use and software features of the Nano 4G, it does have
some distinct disadvantages against it's competitors. Like
all iPod's, the sound quality is mediocre, there is no FM
radio, or a memory card slot for additional storage capacity.
And of course, some people tend to dislike anything which
has mass public appeal. Therefore, below is a list of the
more worthy alternatives to the 4G iPod Nano.
Creative Zen Mozaic Pros
- Superb sound quality via X-fi, an FM radio, wireless streaming from a pc. Microsoft
Zune Pros - Similar design to the iPod, larger screen than the Nano, but
with a lower resolution. Samsung S3 Pros - Superior sound quality,
competitive price and a sleek and an attractive design. Sony NWZ-S710F Pros
- Possibly the best sound of any mp3 player at this price band, steller features,
and 32 hours of battery life.
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