Rumor: Multiple reports point to redesigned iPod

MacRumors points to a new report on Japanese blog Macotakara, that claims the iPod Touch would receive an update later this year, bumping its screen size to 4 inches from the current 3.5 inches.

The device's specs are said to come at par with the iPhone 4S that includes an A5 chip and a 512MB RAM.


Echoing analyst Ming-Chi Kuo's report earlier today, Japanese language Apple blog MacOtakara claims Apple is preparing a new iPod touch that will marry a larger display with updated internal components in a refreshed aluminum housing.

According to the site's sources, the fifth-generation iPod touch will boast a large 4-inch screen identical in size to the rumored next-gen iPhone, though it is unknown if the two devices will share the exact same part as such high-resolution displays are in short supply. While specifics concerning the screen's source are unclear, Kuo said in his report that the unit will likely use the same in-cell touchscreen LCD technology as Apple's upcoming handset.

The media player will also get a speed bump with Apple's proprietary A5 processor, the same silicon powering the current iPhone 4S.

Sources note that Apple will eschew the polished aluminum casing seen on all iPod touch models in favor of a "buffed aluminum" finish more akin to the company's MacBook line. As usual, the unit will be offered in black as well as the white design introduced to the line last year.

KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo, also believes that the iPod touch would be getting a larger, 4-inch screen. The screen, he says, would be utilizing the new in-cell display technology, giving the device additional space which could either be utilized to cram in more components or reduce thickness.

The 4-inch iPod Touch, along with the rumored 4-inch iPhone would give developers enough of an incentive to tailor their apps for a larger screen. Besides, using the same display panels for both, the iPhone and the iPod touch, makes a lot of sense for Apple from the supply chain perspective.

Apple's year ahead would be very active, with rumors pointing to new screen sizes in three product lines, the iPhone, iPod touch and the iPad.