The Apple iPod Nano has undergone some radical changes over the years. Introduced as the replacement for the iPod Mini because Apple feared that its competitors were catching up to them in technology, it was a big hit when it was released in 2005. Although the first generation had some problems, the various changes introduced through the five generations of the Nano have helped it to maintain its popularity.
It took only 9 months to go from the idea stages to the market, which may have been part of the reason that the iPod Nano had some issues in the first generation. It was originally available in only two colors, black and white, and at first only two sizes, 2 GB and 4 GB. Shortly after, a 1 GB model was introduced as well.
There were some complaints other than the limited sizes and colors, though. These devices also seemed to have very sensitive screens that scratched or cracked easily. Apple soon introduced colorful sleeves to protect them and provide the colors people wanted.
Learning from these issues, the second generation of the Apple iPod Nano had a scratch resistant casing and was available in multiple colors. Apple also improved the battery life and doubled the storage sizes, making these available in 2GB, 4GB and 8 GB.
Then the iPod nano third generation was a radical shift, offering a bigger, 2 inch screen on a shorter, wider, heavier Nano. This new design came with a redesigned user interface as well, and offered the ability to play video as well.
In the fourth generation, the Apple iPod Nano returned to its roots by making the design narrower again. It kept the 2 inch screen by turning it sideways. The user interface was again redesigned, and this iPod now gave users the ability to shuffle songs by simply shaking the device, and although video was only able to be played in landscape mode, users could shift the screen orientation by tilting the device on its side.
The most recent generation kept this design for the most part, but does offer a slightly larger screen. It also offers a number of new features. The current Apple iPod Nano can tune in to FM radio, has video and voice recording built in, and even has a built in pedometer for those who exercise while listening to their iPod.
Whether Apple was right to be wary of its competitors or not, this thinking has certainly kept them ahead of the pack when it comes to design and features. It will be interesting to see what they come up with for the next generation of the Apple iPod Nano.
