I was one of the first to get a Zune when it was announced. I also was one of the first to get an iPod Touch. Being first is great but like most “version 1.0” products, you’re left wanting more.
There are rumors that Apple will refresh it’s its iPod line next week and I’m hoping that includes the iPod Touch. I’ve enjoyed my first generation Touch but I wish it did more. In fact I wish it was just like the third generation iPhone, without the phone (and the monthly bill).
Apple, if you’re listening, here is my wish list for a new and improved iPod Touch:
1. Camera. There are rumors this will be included and it would be a killer product if it had the iPhone camera that could do stills and video.
2. GPS and Compass. I realize that the iPhone uses GPS and google maps to show you where you are and you need an internet connection to update the maps, but there are a few turn-by-turn GPS programs that store the maps in the iPhone and don’t rely on a Internet connection. This would be perfect for the Touch. Also, wifi is showing up almost everywhere so I think it still makes sense.
3. Built-in mic and speaker. Yes, I know the 2nd generation Touch has a speaker but I want to make sure it stays in for the 3rd gen (my 1st gen Touch doesn’t have it). A built-in mic means you could use the Touch as a recording device (for voice memos and video), as well as for services like Skype.
4. Music subscription service. I know this isn’t specific to the iPod Touch, but since you are rumored to be coming out with big announcements, why not shock everyone and offer a monthly fee for a service that gives you unlimited (DRM-encoded) music (similar to what Microsoft offers for the Zune). That would really take the thunder out of the pending Microsoft Zune HD release.
5. Approve Google Voice application to run on the iPhone/Touch. Oh sorry, this is for a different blog post.
So, 09/09/2009, is the big day and I can’t wait to see what Apple announces. What is on your wish list for Apple announcements?
73’s, Tom
Good list. I’m OK is Apple creates tiered iPods: cheaper ones without GPS, for instance, dearer ones with. I certainly need more reason to pay $400 for an iPod than more memory.
You’re right Patrick. Thanks.
I have the 2nd Generation iPod touch. I did own the 1st generation too. I think the speaker in the 2nd Generation iPod touch is good, but not great. I hope that they put in a much better one. I think it is a given that a camera is going to be added to the iPod touch. Seeing that there are so many apps that work with a camera now. My hope is that it will shoot video like the iPhone 3GS. GPS would just be so cool. But wouldn’t that up the price? I bet Apple will drop the 8 GB model and lower the price on the 16 GB and 32 GB model. A OLED screen would be nice. The one on the Zune HD looks beautiful. It would be cool if we could wirelessly sync the iPod touch with iTunes on the computer.
“refresh it’s iPod line” should be:
“refresh its iPod line”.