The iPod was first released in September 2001 and, although its basic operation has remained consistent over the years, it has undergone several revisions. The latest release, Generation 4, looks very similar to its predecessor but contains several key differences.

The familiar click-wheel is in place, but rather than the indented circular track seen on previous iPods, this model has a raised, grey-coloured click-wheel that disrupts the otherwise attractive white finish. To its credit, Apple has now placed the control buttons directly on the wheel itself so controlling the iPod is as intuitive as controlling the iPod Mini.

Apple has also improved its battery life. Previous models lasted only eight hours per charge, but the new iPod can now last a claimed 12 hours. This isn't a major increase, but it means users are less likely to have to recharge the iPod on a nightly basis. It comes in 20Gb and 40Gb models, priced at £219 and £299 respectively.

Crucially, the new iPod now allows you to edit your music playlists on the go. Songs can be deleted from ad-hoc mixes, and you can listen to audio-books at different playback speeds.

On the whole, the new additions aren't enough to convince existing iPod owners to upgrade, but it offers late adopters more incentive than ever to jump on the digital music bandwagon.

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