In a somewhat surprising unannounced launch, Apple has released a new model of the iPod touch with a 4-inch screen, and no rear camera – while discontinuing the entire 4th-gen iPod touch lineup in one sweep. The new iPod touch is only available in 16GB capacity, compared to the previous 32GB and 64GB 4th gen models that Apple previously offered. Interestingly, it uses the same Retina display, case, and form factor as the more feature-laden 5th-gen models.
It also differs from the 5th-gen iPod touch in that the new model doesn’t include Apple’s new “Loop” lanyard attachment. The device is now available for $229, only comes in silver & black, and ships within 24 hours.
While it’s unclear exactly why Apple decided to discontinue the 4th-gen iPod touch in favor of a new offering similar to the 5th-gen, the truth likely reflects an attempt to push customers towards the slightly more expensive 5th-gen iPod touch – especially considering the removal of the rear camera in the new 16GB model. The new iPod touch is also $30 more expensive than the cheapest 4th-gen model before they were discontinued.
I can’t think of any other reason Apple would remove a very popular feature of the iPod touch – pushing people to their higher-end products seems like the only reasonable answer.
