iPod touch 16GB

After spending a couple of months with the iPhone, it’s hard to pick up the iPod touch and not think about what could have been. If only video looked as good on the touch as it does on the iPhone. If only Apple had compromised on the iPod’s sleek lines to add a couple of unobtrusive volume buttons (or offered a headset that included remote controls). If only the whole iPod-as-PIM-concept had been thought through to the point where both contacts and calendar events could be entered on the iPod. If only I could use my old video accessories with my new iPod.

Among my list of concerns only one is a deal-killer–the quality of the video. Yes, the iPhone-like interface is impressive. Yes, being able to surf the Web and purchase music while on the move is incredibly convenient. But the iPod touch was created with video in mind and this is the one area where it can’t shortchange its owner. Let’s hope that, with the next product run (or, better yet, the divine power of a firmware update), the touch will provide the same glorious video as the iPhone. The resulting device won’t be perfect, but it will be a vital step in the right direction.–Christopher Breen