5. The Third Generation iPod In Action

As we mentioned above, the biggest changes over the previous version of the iPod were in the hardware; however, the firmware has undergone an overhaul, as well.

The new version 2.0.1 of the firmware includes a few new features which are welcomed additions to the iPod. First, there are two new games on the iPod in addition to the 'Brick' game (which is a breakout-style pong game for the iPod). Having mastered Brick on my previous iPod after many hours of air travel, it is a nice touch by Apple to add the games 'Parachute' and 'Solitaire.' Parachute is an anti-aircraft gun-based battle game that involves trying to prevent parachuters from landing and destroying your anti-aircraft gun. Solitaire is the real gem, however, as this well done version should occupy many long hours while the Solitaire player is happily listening to the iPod. While we have no indication if Apple will release the 2.0.1 firmware for the older version of first and second generation iPods, I am sure that many iPod users hope that they will.

In addition to the games noted above, Apple has added two other new features. One of them is the new 'Notes' feature, which allows you to store text files for reading on the iPod. This feature will most likely be used for short memos that you do not want to forget. However, because the iPod lacks a locking feature you will not want to store sensitive information here in the event that your iPod would be lost or stolen. Speaking of "lost" or stolen iPods, it would be a very good feature if Apple would include some sort of "Whose iPod Is This?" option with a registration feature that could be accessed from within one of the menus. This might help a lost iPod make it back to its registered owner, assuming it was found by someone with an honest nature.

As you might expect, the docking feature seems to be the feature that everyone is most excited about. The dock looks more like a bar of soap than an electronics dock. Still, there is no mistaking the elegant design that Apple has put into its overall appearance. The dock connector seems to be a target for much new development, as already many accessories are starting to appear that make use of it. When the dock connector is not in use on the iPod, it can be covered by the included iPod dock cover. Due to the fact that this is such a small connector and the cover is small as well, Apple included an extra one for those who might lose the first one. The dock is included with the 15 GB and the 30 GB model, but is not included with the 10 GB introduction model. It retails separately for $40 US, which means that if you like the dock feature, you should most likely opt for the 15 GB model as it includes the dock and an extra 5 GB of disk space.

The iPod at home in its new dock that is included with the 15 GB and 30 GB models. It can be purchased separately for the 10 GB model for an additional $40 US.