Updated 23 May, 2013, 8:16 pm IST

REVIEWS / PMPS / APPLE INDIA

Apple iPod Nano with Video Camera

23 Sep, 2009, 9:00 am IST | by Shayne Rana | PMPs

The range of new Apple iPods are upon us. Before you ask, we're still in the dark about the iPhone 3G's arrival, although eminent. First up on the review front is the new iPod Nano with its on-board video camera. Let me first say that I'm honestly surprised that Apple would introduce a smaller device with a camera rather than having its iPod Touch come with the same which would have been a much better sell. Nothing we can do about that now but here's how the newest member of the Nano family performed.�

Form Factor

Apple has decided to go with consistency and I say bravo! I loved the previous design of the Nano Fourth Generation model and so I have no qualms about this one, not one bit. It's still a slim, sexy player with Apple's 'proprietary' Click wheel navigation system for navigation and function access and what makes it even more appealing is that the new range is available in a polished aluminum shell with a hot glossy finish.�

As you may already know, there are a few changes with the device's hardware. Those include a larger display – 2.2-inches - which is a whole 0.2-inch larger than the previous model and of course the VGA video camera loaded on the rear.�The placement of this camera is a big problem though. It’s located at the bottom so if you’re shooting in portrait you’re finger is, almost all of time, going to get in your way. This is a definite issue. Landscape is obviously a non-issue.

It's still an extremely lightweight device as well so you're still doing to have no issues with toting it around. You could also opt for the accessory pouches in case you use your player while working out.�

Features and Performance

Interface

The display's accelerometer is still very evident for displaying albums when held in landscape mode with Cover Flow technology. I still wish Apple would have allowed for the entire menu system to change orientation. The UI is otherwise exactly the same as the previous with of course the addition for the Video camera and the FM Radio (about bloody time guys!!!). It's still easy to use and very very fluid. It's good some things don't change. There's something to be said for consistency.

And this holds true especially when all new devices that Apple launches requires you to download their latest version of iTunes. Without it, your device is quite dead in the water.�

Music and Radio

Apple fans will be happy to know that the audio engine on board the fifth generation will provide you with the same audio quality as you’ve experienced with their devices. Since this is NOT a comparison, I can honestly say that the quality and volume is great. No issues here. I’m still annoyed with the placement of the EQ settings though, as it requires you to go pretty deep into the system just to select a preset. You can also use the Genius Mixes feature to create playlists. The Search option is also handy in case you’re looking for something specific. The Shake-to-Shuffle feature is also present and accounted for.

I was not sure what to expect with this, the very first iPod with a built in FM radio and may I just say... again... for the record... ABOUT BLOODY TIME!!! The reception is great. There’s no auto-scan but it’s a cinch locating and storing presets. Another great feature is the Live Pause option that actually let’s you pause radio and pick up in exactly where you left off even after 15 minutes. This player is just full of surprises.�

Video and Video Recording

I still think the display is a little small for watching videos but it’s the same size as most mobile handsets and clearer than most. Short clips won’t be too much of a strain on the old peepers but full length movies just might be.

The video recording on this baby is just awesome. It records in a 640 x 480 pixel resolution, which is perfect for videos that you can upload to sites like YouTube etc. I can’t say it’s better than mobile phone videos but it’s still pretty good. What makes the video recorder a really great feature are the various settings which include – Sepia, Film Grain (gives it an old horror movie styling), Thermal (looks quite psychedelic) Security cam, Motion Blur, Kaleido and so much more.

My personal Favorite is the Cyborg mode. Hey call me a geek I don’t care, it’s awesome! Of course a still camera would have been nice too. This is the first branded DAP with a camera on board. The problem is still with the camera’s placement though. The best part is that the video files can easily be accessed as soon as the player is plugged in. It goes into Mass Storage mode so you can simply copy paste the files onto your PC’s drive. No iTunes required. Brilliant!�

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Design

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UI

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Media~ Misc.

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Battery

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Specs & Price

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