Second-gen iPod touch

Apple has confirmed rumors by revealing the existence of a second-generation iPod touch, bringing with it several enhancements. Central is a revised casing, which uses a contoured profile similar in shape to the iPhone 3G, but with stainless steel replacing plastic. Other similarities with the iPhone include new volume buttons, allowing blind adjustment, and a speaker, from which owners can hear both music and system sounds.

Apple has also integrated the Nike+ sport system into the device, not only through the inclusion of software support, but a built-in receiver that only demands the standard shoe transmitter to match. The company has lastly tweaked the interface to generate Genius playlists similar to those on the desktop, which can be permanently stored on a touch.

Battery life has been extended on the new touchscreen iPod from 24 to 36 hours for music, while video lasts for up to six hours.

Capacities will remain limited to 8, 16 and 32GB models, but prices have been cut to $229, $299 and $399, respectively. All variants should be available as of today from both retail and the online Apple store.