$199 iPod touch rumored for store shelves

Out with the old and in with the new, as retailers find current iPod models leaving their inventory systems. Apple fan sites buzz with possibilities, including a cheaper iPod touch model.


Visit Apple's page for the iPod touch and you'll find the slick web device starting at $299 for the 8gb version.

Wouldn't it be nice to see that come down in price? AppleInsider says that may happen soon:

On Tuesday, Piper Jaffray analyst Gene Munster issued his own note to clients where he voiced a similar view to that of Reitzes, adding that he expects iPod refreshes across the board with a sub-$200 iPod touch to boot.

"Specifically, we believe Apple will increase the capacity of the iPod shuffles as well as the iPod nanos (but maintain current price points); redesigned form factors for the shuffles and nanos are unlikely," the analyst wrote. "We believe the iPod touch may be redesigned and may enter the $199 price point, in line with the iPhone."

Let's see Apple permit Google's Android phone software on board the iPod touch, couple with Google's desire for broadband over unused TV spectrum. Imagine a $199 iPod touch with VoIP for free calls, or as close to free as possible.

Apple's iPhone partners at AT&T would raise the roof over that, so I'm not too optimistic. But I've believed for some years now that Google really could remake the world of communication if they wanted to do so.

It would be neat if the iPod touch were the vehicle for that. Perhaps another day.