Apple gives mini iPod a maxi 6GB makeover

Apple shuffled in new iPod Mini and iPod Photo music players on Wednesday and introduced lower prices for some models.

The company introduced a higher-capacity, 6GB Mini, along with new 30GB and 60GB iPod Photo models, which can use an adapter to connect directly to digital cameras and display photos. The Minis also feature a boost in battery life.

The new models expand the range of Apple's popular hard-drive-based music players and increase the product line's capabilities in digital photography. A $29 camera adapter for the iPod Photo answers the call for connecting the player directly to cameras without the need for a computer as a go-between.

Along with bringing out the 6GB Mini, which costs £169, Apple lowered the price of its 4GB Mini to £139.

The 30GB iPod Photo costs £248.99, while the 60GB device costs £309. 

Apple has been on a low-price tear recently in an effort to reach more consumers. In January, it introduced the flash-based iPod Shuffle, which starts at £69, along with a Mac Mini desktop PC designed to appeal to bargain hunters.

Steve Jobs, Apple's CEO, said in a statement: "The iPod Mini is now available at the magic price point of $199."
 
Apple's iPod line has already achieved totemic status in American pop culture and is the clear market leader among portable music players. That overall gadget segment is enjoying healthy growth. A recent study revealed that 22 million adults in the United States, or 11 per cent of the population, own an iPod or other MP3 player.

Apple clearly is out to build on its success, said one analyst.

NPD Group's Steve Baker said: "If you combine (the $199 iPod Mini) with the Shuffle, it really says Apple is shooting for the moon here.” The company is "really going after getting as much of this market as it can."
 
Aside from adding the camera link to the iPod Photo models, Apple lengthened the battery life of both Minis. Apple says the Minis can now operate for up to 18 hours on a battery charge. They also come in four colours - blue, green, pink and silver. Gold, a colour offered on the first 4GB Mini, is no longer listed as an option on Apple's website.

In addition, Apple appears to have dropped its 40GB iPods in favour of 20GB, 30GB and 60GB models. The 40GB iPod and iPod Photo models disappeared from the company's website on Wednesday morning shortly after the new iPod models were announced.

All four of the new iPods are available now, while the iPod Camera Connector will come out in late March.

John G. Spooner writes for CNET News.com.