Apple Revamps the iLineup

The new iPod Touch features dual cameras and the FaceTime program first seen on the iPhone 4.

Image: Apple

Apple Inc. unveiled a host of product updates on Wednesday, including a touchscreen nano, social networking for iTunes, a new version of Apple TV.

The new Apple TV is smaller and can only be used to rent, not buy, content. First-run high-definition movies will b available for $4.99 on their DVD release date. High-definition TV shows can be rented for 99 cents.

Apple TV also streams content from Netflix, YouTube, Flickr, and MobileMe, as well as music, photos, and videos from PCs and Macs.

Users can also stream content from devices that use Apple's iOS operating system (iPod, iPad, iPhone) to the Apple TV.

The new Nano does away with the clickwheel and features a touchscreen control, as had been rumored before the event. The new version is square and controlled by finger gestures. It will sell for $149 for a 4 GB version and $179 for an 8 GB version.

A new iPod Touch will feature both front and rear-facing cameras that allow Facetime video conferencing and feature improved display. The new Touch will come in three versions: an 8 GB model for $229, 32 GB for $299, and 64 GB for $399.

The new iOS includes TV-show rentals and a feature called high dynamic-range photos, which allows a user to shoot three pictures in rapid succession and merge them for the best result.

Apple also introduced iTunes10 with Ping, a music-oriented social network. Users can post opinions, favorite music, downloads, and view concert listings.

iTunes 10 also features high-definition television rentals for 99 cents an episode and AirPlay wireless music playback.

• To read the press release about Apple TV, click here.
• To read Apple's press release about the iPod Touch, click here.
• To read Apple's press release about iPod Shuffle, click here.
• To read Apple's press release about iPod Nano, click here.
• To read Apple's press release about Ping, click here.