Okay I know, iPad is the product of interest in Apple's catalog right now, but having just picked up the touch about a month ago thought I'd share my words. The iPod Touch is the evolution of every innovation Apple had up there sleeves in MP3 player marketing for the last few years, minus there most recognized and iconic feature the 'click wheel'. If you don't mind that being dropped, do know note you know get a 3.5" inch screen and a much more appealing interface (I avoid saying cleaner, as the iPod's layout was as simple as you could get) along with the obvious touch screen.
To be quite honest, I was awaiting the Zune HD for the longest time, the iPod simply received my purchase due to all the applications. I'll say this short and sweet, I really enjoy the Zune HD due to the responsive screen (OLED screen helps) and performance, just not a fan of the software required for it. Back to the touch, it's very sleek and packs a lot of punch for something weighing about four ounces. The audio output jack is 3.5mm, the newer 3rd gen models feature iPod earbuds with a volume control and mic built in. I had not noticed the mic, as I instantly headed for other headphones/earbuds as I strongly dislike the quality of past stock buds included with Apple products.
The mic is fully functional, and is actually not nearly as bad as I imagined (thankfully). Built in sound source, now if you simply want to make sure you have the correct song, or simply watch a funny clip you don't need to reach for the cans. The internal speakers aren't amazing, but they are functional. Two volume buttons can be found on the side for quick volume adjustments.Quick tip: sometimes you may not be able to hear anything, the device can be tricked into this by having gunk/grime get into the jack/input area. Don't be alarmed you haven't busted your investment, simply use a Q tip or something that can fit into the area. Use something like window cleaner and gently clean the inside. If you are lucky, you can turn the device off then on and the problem may be resolved (this wasn't my idea, but it has proven to be effective both times this occured).
The iPod Touch, along with the iPhone heavily rely on applications to really make them shine. Apps can range from crafty and practical tools, to comical showy effects like the ability to 'use' a lighter and blow out the flame, or firing a gun by shaking the screen. Apps can capture the musician inside of you, granting you the ability to carry a pocket guitar, or keyboard. They aren't the greatest (and I purchased "Pocket Guitar" to me it was more of a novelty), but many apps are cheap ranging between two dollars or less. People who enjoy texting will be relieved to know an app is available for free texting. Due to the touch screen, this device becomes much more versatile for games then you'd expect.
There is a large and still growing colelction of games to purchase, and the free ones are pretty fun, but for every good one there is usually a handful of duds. Next generation games can be found in scaled down forms ("Call of Duty: Nazi Zombies"), and remakes of classic games (Final Fantasy anyone). Even some great last gen games too like Resident Evil 4, and some current handheld titles for other platforms like "Grand Theft Auto China Town Wars". 'Light' (free) versions of many apps, including the games, can be downloaded. Some games though can play out to be a bit odd, with no real joy stick, first person shooters (fps) can start you off confused.
Things to get you started on your touch include, instant Youtube access (your required to have an internet connection, chances are it'll require a password), 'Safari' (Apples internet), Piano Virtuosou (entertaining pocket sized piano with a few octaves and decent sound), and things like email and contact lists to keep your social cliques organized. Weather checks, voice recording, and settings can keep you busy for awhile too. Don't get lost searching through the whole world map get up either, oh it makes locating stores and restaraunts that much easier (try out the free Google Earth if you enjoy this).
The internet runs very smooth, and can be a very easy process. Switching to a virtual keyboard can sound tricky but becomes second nature. You'll be browsing, searching, and locating information fast. If you find yourself squinting to see the text, no worries it's a small font, expand two fingers around the section you want enlarged and well it'll happen crazy I know. Pinch to shrink the area. If you find a photo you want while browsing the internet, you can save the image into your actual image folder by pressing on the image for a few short moments. Don't think you can do this with videos, but you a have a video tab as well.
review informationApple iPod touch 32 GB (3rd Generation) OLD MODEL
I was absolutely happy with this purchase. After much researching of the different cases for the Ipod touch gen 2, I decided on this. This is a great value and very high quality. Because of its padding, I know that my Ipod is well protected. All buttons and cable can easily be accessed even while in the case. To me this is a no brainer compared to those "gel/silicone" cases or other types. I like the magnetic closure because I can wrap the earbud wire around the ipod and then close the case keeping the wire intact. 
![Apple iPod touch 8 GB (2nd Generation--with iPhone OS 3.1 Software Installed) [NEWEST MODEL]](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/blogger_img_proxy/AEn0k_sNFpEam6dBoHYEoPLoKQe4Mn_bOGGOywilXSZwnD1tEuUXVR3_DWpSlcemxHrlBcQHG7kunsRwP19GrwwzJmZwck0kZmKB_QV9rHSVhwIX1IrYmmcWkJiXY5Se4H0C-f4bAU8jYqi1fnzJU3B0UIU7FyzgwrjOsQXpj2Zi1eKNrZrdgBqrah_3K7kEtS99esMW37baFoKMTaZHXlxZu5AwDPYNd1GHj030CSA=s0-d)
