Apple iPod touch 2nd Generation (32 GB) MP3 Player

INTRODUCTION
The other reviews already written here go into a lot of details, I will keep this one simple, try to add anything that was not covered in the other reviews. And, from the perspective of a person off the street, who did not have the 1st generation iPod touch.

WHY BUY THIS THING?
Its pricey. Even though its "cheaper" than the first generation touch, the 32G version is still $425 with tax. Yikes. That is way too much for an MP3 player, right? That was my feeling when the first iPod touch came out. I did not even bother to look at one.

However in checking out the second generation version in a store, just for kicks, I found its more than just an MP3 player. And not only is it more than that, but the stuff that makes it more than that, is actually USABLE. You know, sometimes an MP3 player or a cell phone will have a bunch of junk installed on it, which makes it sound like you are getting a lot, but most of it is junk and not really usable.

Here are some of the things you get with this device that I think make it well worth buying (aside from the MP3 capability):

- ability to download and watch TV shows (old ones and first runs)
- ability to download and watch movies (old ones and first runs)
- the 3.5 inch screen you use to view the above is GORGEOUS.
- built-in speaker for those quick moments when you just want to check something out, or play a game, and don't want to bother to fish out the 'phones
- a GREAT selection of fun, playable, addictive games that utilize the touch screen. Some of my favorites are bowling, missile command, texas hold 'em, and a shuffle puck game that is idiotically simple but a blast to play! There are probably well over a hundred games you can download for free or for just a few bucks from iTunes.
- an interface to the internet if you have wireless access; built in GPS/Map features and youtube, weather forecast, etc
- sync with outlook; and has calendar, contacts, etc to act as a PDA
- sync of all of your favorites from internet explorer on your desktop or laptop PC, so you don't have to type them in when using the iPod's web browser
- get your email downloaded (again if you have wireless access)
- its a great way to carry around a personal album of digital photos; pics look great on this screen

I take a train to work and back each day, this device allows me to go into another world and forget I am packed in like a sardine with the commuting masses.

The real key things that it shines for (aside from music) are watching videos and playing games. Two additional entertainment avenues that make this much more than just a music player. The video interface is very simple and works great. The games are just a blast! The screen is just big enough so that you don't feel the game is crammed down too small, and the "accelerometer" (ability for the device to sense movement like a Wii controller) combines well with the touch screen for a really fun game interface.

So - back to my question: why buy this thing? Because its not just an MP3 player, its a versatile enterainment center that will help you escape when you need to. Video, games, wireless, and music.

IS IT A PDA?
Is this also useful as a Personal Digital Assistant? For keeping your contacts, calendar, etc? I would say yes. It syncs with outlook, and has a nice interface for calendar/appointments, contacts, etc. If I did not have a blackberry at work I would use my iPod Touch as a PDA too. You can download email to it, you can open attachments like MS Word, etc. The interface to enter data (a touch screen typing board) is okay (but not as good as pushing real physical keys in my opinion). However, I really do think it would be a fine PDA. It slips into a shirt pocket very nicely and looks/feels like a very slick business device. And you can play shuffle puck in boring meetings!

OTHER TIDBITS
There are earphones that also have a microphone built into them too, I saw them on the Apple web site. They don't come with the device (you just get the basic white typical apple in-ear 'phones), but you can buy them if you want. You can then record voice memos on the touch; and maybe soon be able to do voice calls over the internet with the wireless capability? Dare I believe that is coming? I think it is. That would be something.

There are no moving parts in this device, by the way. No little spinning hard drive like older generation iPod's with big storage. Its all flash memory.

You will want to invest in a case for this. Go to the apple website to check out your options. Be careful to make sure you are looking at cases for the 2nd generation Touch. There is a difference. That's why I say go to the apple site; they have a huge selection and will cearly tell you which iPod Touch the case is for. You don't have to buy the case from Apple, but you can at least find the model you want there and get it elsewhere if you so choose.

The screen is VERY resistant to scratches. Have been using mine like crazy and have not got a case yet, it seems pretty durable. Its not like older iPods where screens were a concern.

It can use your old USB connector if you have one from an older iPod.

Battery life is great; several hours of video, and you could listen to music on it for a week on one charge.

And if you are a gadget freak like me, don't forget the "coolness" factor!