Among the extended iPod Mini clan, which Apple claims now have an improved battery life, is a 6-gigabyte model that the computer giant says can store 1,500 songs and will be retailed at just under $250. The 4-gigabyte iPod mini will be available $50 cheaper, at $199.
Apple will also attempt to increase its digital photography capabilities by unveiling a 30-gigabyte iPod photo unit that can hold 7,500 songs and up to 25,000 photos for $349. In addition, the company said it plans to cut the price of its 60-gigabyte iPod photo from $599 to just under $500. Both versions are expected to feature an iPod Camera Connector, an adapter which will connect directly to digital cameras and display photos.
The iPod photo product line works with Apple’s iTunes, a digital music player that provides access to the firm’s digital music service iTunes Music Store, to automatically download a digital music library onto an iPod photo.
Reports have also hinted that Apple is trying to faze out its 40-gigabyte iPods with 20-, 30- and 60-gigabte models, as the older versions disappeared from the company’s web site after the new products were announced.
It has been further speculated that this latest move is part of Apple’s strategy to build upon the popularity of its digital music player range by providing cheaper models. Last month it revealed the flash-based iPod Shuffle, which starts at $99, along with a bargain-driven Mac Mini desktop PC.
