New and Much Improved Apple TV
Steve Jobs unveiled a new version of Apple TV at the Apple press event on Wednesday. The new device is smaller than it’s predecessor and will only deliver rentals, including 99-cent TV shows from News Corp. and the Walt Disney Co. The device also connects with Netflix and online video sites like YouTube. Apple TV is priced at $99 and will be available in four weeks.
Apple Updates the iPod
Apple also showed-off new designs for the iPod shuffle, nano and touch devices. Most notably, the iPod nano now comes with a FM radio and the iPod touch has a front-facing camera. Jobs noted that to date, Apple has sold over 275 million iPods.
Facebook Gift Cards at Target
Target will start selling Facebook credits on gift cards starting beginning this Sunday. Facebook credits are a virtual currency and are redeemable for purchases within social games like Farmville. Over 56 million Americans play social games, making it a very popular pastime.
Sony Unveils New eReaders
Sony unveiled three new eReaders. The new devices are smaller and lighter than the previous versions, feature touch-screens and the new E Ink Pearl, which makes text readable in direct sunlight. Priced between $179 and $299, the Sony readers are more expensive than competing products, but Sony hopes consumers will pay for the extra features.
Shelly Palmer Interviews Mark Watkins from Goby