Apple expected to reveal new iPod range

by Jacquie Bowser, Brand Republic 01-Sep-09, 11:20

LONDON - Apple is widely expected to unveil a new line of iPods and the latest version of iTunes at a media event it is hosting next Wednesday in San Francisco.

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The technology firm sent members of the media invitations which feature its iconic iPod silhouette and the tagline "It's only rock and roll, but we like it".

Apple has previously used September media events to showcase new and refreshed iPod models ahead of the lucrative period in the run up to Christmas.

The new iPod touch is rumoured to feature a 3.2-megapixel video camera.

In addition to the new iPods, the latest version of iTunes is expected to be unveiled, enabling deeper access to social networking sites such as Facebook and Twitter.

September 9 is also the day that Electronic Arts releases highly-anticipated video game 'The Beatles: Rock Band', which features 45 songs of The Beatles' catalogue, including 'I Saw Her Standing There, 'I Want To Hold Your Hand', 'Taxman', 'Here Comes The Sun' and 'Octopus's Garden'.

Apple-enthusiasts do not believe the timing is coincidental and predict Apple to announce that The Beatles' catalogue of records is to be made available through its iTunes store.

Apple has provided few details of the event and declined to confirm whether Steve Jobs, Apple's chief executive, will be present.

The company's much-rumoured tablet device, featuring a touch screen, is not expected to be unveiled at next week's event. Analysts expect the so-called "iPad" to be unveiled later this year or in early 2010.