Apples rumours spread across the web like wild fire. And whenever an article claims to be more than a rumour, the heat really turns on. 

Early in September this year Apple released the latest generation of iPod Touch – the 3rd gen.  Within days iFixit had stripped it down, and examined the hardware components with absolute scrutiny.

This attention to detail revealed more than meets the eye on the wireless chip found in the new iPod. Along with the potentially compatible with 802.11n technology, the new standard for WiFi but also the ability to send and receive FM transmissions. 

On the same release Apple announced the new Nano with FM receiver and video capture. But where were these upgrades on the iPod Touch, regarded as the highest spec iPod? 

This is not the first time Apple has shipped a product with greater hardware than originally specified. Several years ago, through a software update, the iPod Touch suddenly gained Bluetooth. Of cause it was shipped with the Bluetooth chip already soldered in, the software just needed to support it. An unusual move for any manufacturer, but one we may witness Apple repeating again with the new iPod Touch.

Internal hardware aside, Apple is yet again gaining ground in innovation with the suspected delay in FM compatibility being down to Apple perfecting RDS (Radio Data System). It would seem that a technology which allowed iPod users to instantly download a song from iTunes, which they hear on the radio would be very beneficial to Apple – increasing the purchase rate to iTunes. 

However there has been little speculation on whether this software update will give the iPod FM transmitting capability. You can pick up a device from eBay for under £10 which using a standard 3.5 mm jack will transmit your music wirelessly to your tuned in stereo. But there would be no need for these devices in the future if indeed Apple release the full potential of the iPod Touch’s hardware. Would Apple deliberately pass such a hard blow on it’s accessories market?

In conclusion no one can truly speculate on the mind of Steve Jobs; an example being ‘how many years ago should the iTablet have been released?’ But we can be sure that Apple loves surprise it’s customers as soon thousands of iPod Touch users may be waking up with a greater product than they purchased.

And as with the norm on Apple news, we must wait and see.

Image via Wikipedia