The 4th Gen Nano does it right!

The 4th generation Nano, Available in capacities of 8GB, and 16GB (priced at $149 & $199 respectively) these have a scratch-resistant aluminum body and are now slimmer than ever. The unit has new rounded, contour edges that make it feel thinner than it is and feel right in your hand. The new line-up comes in a whole array of colors to match the rainbow, and to match your personality as well.

The 4th Generation Nano has completely redesigned the Nano over the 3rd generation “Fat”, and it feels like it is different on the sides when you hold it comparatively to the older generations. Stepping back to the 1st and 2nd generation designs, it takes the good of the style of the 2nd gen, along with the advancements in the “Fat” 3rd generation versions, and creates a winning design. This design is a lot thinner than it was, yet retains the 2-inch screen, though it is millimeters thinner. The new screen saves the room for viewing your tracks and playing games, but the genius comes in the flipping of the screen.

The screen with this change, still has a 2-inch viewing area, which makes it very easy to use, browse and watch. When view movies, shows, podcasts with the new Nano, the Nano should be flipped to a “widescreen” view, in which the new accelerometer changes the landscape and viewing of this device. This new Nano still has a long battery life. Apple claims that it will last 36 hours, but I was able to get just over 32 hours of playtime – which is nice… real nice. The video experience was just over 6 hours – as advertised.

Another thing about the accelerometer. The accelerometer also enables 'shake to shuffle', where a flick of the wrist will choose a random song. This feels like it has been done right. It also allows easy use of the coverflow system, which runs much smoother this time around.

The new music search functions (Genius), the brighter screen,, sound quality, smoother ease and use of coverflow, and continued games support give the new iPod added flare. The addition of voice notes won't make a difference to most people, as you'll need to buy some extra headphones with a microphone built in – but it is nice to know that it is there if you do.

The addition of Genius, an automatic playlist generator, is going to be a massive hit with iPod fans. Genius will be massive, because it will - if it works as advertised - unlock the potential of your iPod library and help keep parties jumping or evenings chilled. It will also allow Apple to recommend tracks to you by your listening tastes as well.

As a fan small MP3 players, and of the past Nano line-ups, I love this design. I really do. I think the all aluminum casing is the way to go, and I am happy again that it is all around the unit. Should you replace your old 8GB Nano (3rd Generation) with the new one? If you really want accelerometer video abilities and Genius, I would say yes. Regardless if you upgrade, or decided to wait it out, I highly recommended this device to Apple lovers and new MP3 enthusiasts alike.

Pros:
-Brighter, crisper viewing screen
-Aluminum scratch-resistant casing all around the body
-Amazing battery-life: 30+ hours plus (6+ with video)!
-Search features, cover flow, album art, Genius
-Accelerometer for video viewing and song shuffling
-Genius song selection
-Microphone capabilities
-LOTS of new colors to choose from
-Games via iTunes

Cons
-Still no built in FM tuner
-Limited space when it comes to video & games

Good product if you just listen to it through headphone jack only

Features are a four out five since I just want an mp3 player not a video player which the click wheel accidentally selects it then I have to back out and get to my music. Design is a four because it doesn't connect through the ipod connector that well in my car and this is the second plug in cord I have purchased thinking it was the cord. The sound goes in and out sometimes like its not making good connection.