New iPod shuffle includes voice over playlists and buttons; $49

Many expected at least one new iPod to be announced at Apple's press event today. In fact, every iPod series is getting a new version, starting with the iPod Shuffle.

Smaller than the second-gen version, the new fourth-generation iPod Shuffle returns to a square shape. Yet this one will blend the best of the second and third-generation models with both buttons and voice over playback. Some of the voice over information available will include song titles, artists, album and playlist information.

Buyers can also look forward to the addition of Genius Mixes to the iPod Shuffle. Best of all, the battery should last up to 15 hours of music playback time on a single charge.

Available in five color schemes (pink, green blue and orange with a white trim or silver with a black trim), the new iPod Shuffle will retail for $49 with a 2GB capacity. That is cheaper than the previous $59 version in 2GB, but a 4GB capacity wasn't mentioned during the keynote. Perhaps (hopefully) it will be posted on the Apple Store site later today. Interested buyers can pre-order the new iPod Shuffle today, and it will be ready for shipping next week.

Oh, and Steve Jobs described the packaging as "cute."

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