With the release of the iPhone and a line of new and improved iPods, Apple has again launched ahead in the portable media scene. The new iPod Nano and Classic (previously iPod Video) sport a new interface and various aesthetic improvements.
The iPod Touch (essentially the iPhone without the phone) features Web browsing and the multitouch interface implemented in the iPhone. However, there are many alternatives that might give you more features for less strain on your wallet.
Nearly a year after Microsoft introduced the Zune, the first WiFi-enabled portable media player, the Zune line is being revamped with several new players and a host of new features. On Nov. 13, Microsoft added an
80-gigabyte model and two iPod Nano-sized 4GB and 8GB players, conveniently named Zune 80, Zune 4 and Zune 8, respectively.
These players feature a sleek new interface, wireless syncing with PCs, improved wireless sharing and support for podcasts, TV shows recorded via Windows Media Center and several more video formats in addition to music, videos, photos and FM radio, which the iPod line still lacks. If you already own a Zune, you are not missing out, as a software update is available to give your Zune all the new features.
There are several other brands on the market. The Creative Zen players, such as the hard-drive-based Zen Vision:M and the tiny but mighty Zen V, are commendable for their durability, support for a wide range of music, picture and video formats, and excellent prices. Also impressive are the SanDisk Sansa players, such as the sleek Sansa View and the WiFi-enabled Sansa Connect, which can wirelessly stream music and photos from Yahoo!’s LAUNCHCast service and Flickr.
The holiday season is here, and electronic gizmos will be on many wish lists. The question remains whether to go with the hype or try to seek out the best deal. While the iPod line remains the top of the market, it does not hurt to consider all of your options before you buy.
• David Chen is a senior at West High and a youth advisory commissioner. The city's Youth Advisory Commission strives to give local teens a voice in their community. The commission meets at 6 p.m. the second Wednesday every month at the Lolly Hansen Senior Center, 375 E. Ninth St. E-mail them at
yac@ci.tracy.ca.us.
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