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You’ve seen the new 3G iPod nano. You might even own it. (I sure like mine…) Have you wanted to know how it was invented?

Wonder no more.

Obivously the iPod nano evolved from Apple Computer as part of the iPod product line. That original iPod was is often credited to Tony Fadell. Tony was part of the team that created the original iPod classic. Who invented the nano? It seems to be a team effort, as no one is being publicly credited with its invention. Let’s look at the details of the nano’s launch.

The media was caught off-guard when the nano was introduced in 2005. Apple created the nano to replace the iPod Min, which already had a strong following in the middle market.

There were a couple solid reasons to discontinue the mini in favor of the nano.

You wouldn’t think “storage technology” would be a big deal, but in the case of the iPod nano it’s incredibly important. Nanos use flash drive storage — which is much, much more durable than a typical hard drive. My nano takes a lot of abuse and still keeps running.

Apple’s since put flash storage into all except the classic iPod (which still uses a hard disk). The classic iPod needs to be handled a little more carefully than a nano, though the nano doesn’t store as much.

Then there’s the size of the iPod nano. That flash drive storage is a lot smaller than a hard disk would be, and it shows in the nano’s size. The first nano was a huge improvement in size. I could put it in my jacket without a bulge. It fit in women’s’ purses. It didn’t add any bulk worn on an armband.

Where are we now? The third generation iPod nano (the 3G nano) launched September 5, 2007. The release was a major step forward for users wanting games and video playback. The size of the 3G was widened to make room for the graphics.

The nano 3G images are sharp and clear. It renders with a 204 pixel density on a QVGA 320×240 screen. Beautiful.

As far as games, the nano 3G delivers with three to start. A healthy variety are available for download at iTunes and other download sites.

Okay, the history lesson’s over. It’s time to enjoy your nano!

Last 5 posts by Lydia Vaughn

• iPod Tips: Play the iPod on Your Computer's Speakers - May 24th, 2008
• What to Look for in iPod nano Holders - May 20th, 2008

Tags: Technology