Current iPod Line Won’t Be Affected by Upcoming 6G Nano, Sources Claim

The widely expected sixth-generation iPod nano, rumored to feature a square touchscreen and more advanced underlying software, will not push out the existing iPod shuffle line, people familiar with Apple’s plans reportedly said.

A report by AppleInsider citing these people reveals that, although the new nano is expected to feature a design similar to that of clip-on iPod shuffles, the player will be marketed as just another entry-level device.

The new iPod will also be priced in accordance with the current nano line, these people said.

The current iPod nano, which features a widescreen display, a built-in camera and a click-wheel for controls, sells for $149 and $179 for 8GB and 16GB of storage capacity respectively.

Apple is expected to introduce the new hardware as soon as today, during its planned event at the Yerba Buena Center for the Arts in San Francisco, California.

However, people knowledgeable in Apple matters say the player is not to go on sale just yet. Apple will start selling the player at a later date, according to the report in question.

Images of iPod nano cases pertaining to the rumored 6G model indicate that Apple is retaining the 30-pin connector in a device whose screen is roughly 3cm-by-3cm (or 1.7 inches on the diagonal).

The indication comes from carefully photographed cases showing holes through which a cable would reach the iPod’s dock connector.

Various such images were published earlier this week, adding credence to the rumor with every new source publishing almost identical cases.

Finally, according to AppleInsider, the new nano will also boast external buttons for volume and hold / lock, while the headphone seems to be located at the bottom of the player, next to the dock connector.