Apple IPOD Touch - 3rd gen - 8 GB

Just how incredible is Apple's new iPod touch? Hugo investigates.

The iPod touch marks a move away from other MP3 players and towards pocket computers and other touchscreen multimedia devices.

Advantages: - Ease of use, - Excellent menus and navigation, - Fast

Disadvantages: - Sound is less impressive, - Back still susceptible to scratches and finger prints

The iPod touch marks a move away from other MP3 players and towards pocket computers and other touchscreen multimedia devices.

Advantages: - Ease of use, - Excellent menus and navigation, - Fast

Disadvantages: - Sound is less impressive, - Back still susceptible to scratches and finger prints

We think the iPod Touch is a great product with lots to offer, but its premium price tag should give some shoppers pause. Don't assume that Apple's most expensive iPod is the best solution for your needs. If you're planning on watching a lot of video, high-capacity products like the iPod Classic or Archos 605 WiFi will allow you to load entire seasons of your favorite TV shows. Also bear in mind that if you're not around an available Wi-Fi network, features like the Safari Web browser, Internet radio, e-mail, iTunes Wi-Fi music store, and YouTube video portal won't mean much at all. While the iPod Touch may not be the slam dunk we were hoping for, it is an unquestionably cool product that continues Apple's legacy of sleek, innovative design.

The iPod Touch is a beautiful product, inside and out, but prepare yourself for sticker shock.

Advantages: The Apple iPod Touch has a large, video-worthy screen, a cutting-edge interface, and Wi-Fi Internet, e-mail, and music download capabilities.

Disadvantages: The iPod Touch may cost too much for you, depending on your needs. It has a small capacity for a portable video player.

Though the updates are subtle, the third-generation iPod Touch leaves its competitors in the dust.

Advantages: The third generation of Apple's iPod Touch is still the king of the hill when it comes to portable, Wi-Fi-wielding media players. New additions such as Voice Control, graphics enhancements, improved accessibility, higher capacity, and a faster processor help to refine an already excellent product.

Disadvantages: The video cameras found on the iPhone 3GS and iPod Nano remain conspicuously absent. The lack of refinements to its audio quality, hardware design, and video playback leave us feeling just a little uninspired.