A report on Thursday says Apple’s long-neglected iPod touch lineup, which hasn’t seen any significant update love since 2012, will be updated this year.
A source familiar with Apple’s future product plans indicated that Apple’s iPods — specifically the largest-screened model, the iPod touch — are expected to see an update later this year.
AppleInsider’s source suggested the iPod touch model could retain its current 4-inch screen, although they couldn’t be certain on that point.
It’s likely that a refreshed iPod touch would make use of components from previous-generation iPhones, as has been normal for the device. The current iPod touch lineup uses the A5 chip, which was state of the art when the iPhone 4S was released in 2012. Apple’s current flagship iPhones make use of the A8 chip, so there is plenty of room for an update in that category.
AppleInsider notes that the A6 processor, which debuted in the iPhone 5, is still being produced for use in the iPhone 5c, so that would seem like a likely candidate. It is possible the company may decide to go with an A7 chip, which would bring the iPod touch up to 64-bit capabilities.
Other possible upgrades for a refreshed iPod touch could include more memory, (the iPod touch is currently available in 16, 32, and 64 GB capacities), and a better camera. The current iPod touch camera is a 5-megapixel shooter capable of 1080p video. Its front-facing camera is capable of 720p video.
iPod sales have continued to decline over the years, and Apple no longer reports unit sales for the device. The last time sales were reported, (fiscal Q4 of 2014), sales were a measly 2.6 million units.
For now this should be categorized as a rumor, but we’ll keep our eyes open and let you know if any more information leaks out.
