Apple Store Down – New iPods Rumored [UPDATED]

Apple has taken its online store down for a quick updating of its listings. Word on the web is that Apple's new products are 4GB iPod shuffles in several fresh colors. The current model is available in five colors and comes with a maximum 2GB of storage for $69.

A post over at MacRumors cites “one source who previously relayed accurate information about the Mac mini, Mac Pro and iMac launch,” saying that “Apple is about to release a new 4GB iPod Shuffle in Black, Silver and possibly other colors.” Apple typically shuts down access to its online store so it can introduce new products.

While the company is rumored to have several other products in the works, Apple isn't likely to introduce anything more than upgrades to one of its existing lines. The Mac maker only launches new products on stage, while Apple hasn't even published a schedule for its World Wide Developers Conference (WWDC) '09 yet, so don't expect anything big.

However, Apple may be prepping more than just beefed up shuffles. History has shown that Apple doesn't need to take the online store down for hardware upgrades (the NVIDIA-equipped polycarbonate MacBook, 13-inch introduced last month). But with Mac upgrades already out the door, the only ones in line for an upgrade are the iPods. We're not ruling out changes to other products either (Mac accessories, etc.), or a 32GB iPhone.

This year, Apple is widely believed to introduce fresh hardware products, as well as the new version of Mac OS X 10.6, aka Snow Leopard. Rumor has it that WWDC '09 will see an Apple netbook / tablet introduced by Steve Jobs, upon his return as CEO. Some have even speculated that an iPhone nano is in the works. However, none of these rumored products are likely to turn up once the store is back online.

As we wait for the new arrivals, what do you think Apple is so carefully putting on its shelves this time around?

UPDATE: the Apple Store is back online with a new iPod shuffle that 'talks to you' (VoiceOver-capable). Check it out! Be sure to stick around for more coverage on the new product.