We all think we know what’s coming in the iPhone announcement, but is the iPod touch going to get any upgrade love? According to KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo the answer is “Oh Yeah!”
KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo has released a last-minute research report outlining his expectations for the updated iPod touch said to be being introduced today alongside the iPhone 5. Calling the 2012 version of the iPod touch the “biggest upgrade ever” for the device, Kuo outlines a number of features he expects the new model to offer.
Colors! – In addition to the traditional black model, and the white model added just last year, Kuo expects the iPod touch to be released in new colors to attract younger customers.
4-inch Display, Thinner Body – The touch should get the same display love as the new iPhone, in the form of a 4-inch display, and in-cell technology. This will allow Apple to shave the touch’s thickness down to 6.0-6.5 mm and pare the weight down to under 100 grams.
GPS – Kuo expects the new iPod touch to include built-in GPS to capitalize on Apple’s new Maps app.
Camera Upgrade! – Kuo is expecting a FaceTime HD camera on the front, and a 5 megapixel camera on the rear.
Cross-Device Capabilities (Gaming!) – The new iPod touch may be able to easily connect with the iPad and Mac hardware, in order to serve as a game controller or other accessory.
A5 Chip – Kuo claims that the updated device will use the A5 system-on-a-chip, most likely the die-shrunk 32-nanometer version that debuted earlier this year in the tweaked iPad 2 and third-generation Apple TV. Meanwhile the iPhone 5 is expected to get the more powerful A6 chip.
Smaller Dock Connector – The entire iOS device lineup is expected to move to the new dock connector, and the touch is no exception.
Kuo says he also believes that the current-generation iPod touch will be discontinued, as Apple will focus on the improvements in the new model. It’s worth noting that Kuo has a great track record, and tends to be right on the money with these sorts of claims.
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