ipod touch 4g review

The iPod Touch used to be the iPhone without a phone. Well, now it’s got one – kind of – thanks to a front-facing VGA camera and Apple’s FaceTime app for video calling. Fourth-gen Touch users can call each other, and iPhone 4 users, for free providing they have a Wi-Fi connection. Add a Mi-Fi portable hotspot and Skype app, and the Touch really does provide a cheap alternative to the iPhone 4. And one that’s not troubled by reception issues.

High definition heaven
With pixels so small you can't see them, the Touch’s Retina display looks incredible, although its worth noting that without IPS (In-Plane Switching) technology the viewing angle is noticeably poorer than the iPhone 4’s.

The flashless, VGA stills camera is no match for the iPhone’s, either, but the Touch’s HD video recording is fantastic. Add the iMovie app (£3) and you’ll be editing, titling and uploading hi-def movies in a matter of minutes. With competition like this, the Flip’s days could be numbered.

Must be the music

Of course, the music capabilities of the Touch are peerless, too – and you’ll get an impressive 40 hours of audio playback from a single charge (or 7 hours of video). As usual, we’d advise replacing Apple’s poor quality bundled earphones – or ditching them altogether and going wireless. Because we now have the mouthwatering prospect of streaming music, movies and photos over Wi-Fi from iPod Touch to AirPlay-compatible kit such as the new Apple TV (£100, due November 2010)
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