Apple surprise launches new 16GB iPod Touch

Seemingly out of the blue, Apple has launched a 16GB iPod Touch which appears to be a stripped out version of the fifth generation device.

The new Touch comes with the same 4-inch Retina display as its predecessor, as well as the same dual-core A5 processor and front-facing FaceTime HD camera as the previous model, but it’s lost the 5MP rear-facing camera and a bit of weight with it.

It’s also lost a bit of storage space. The other iPod Touches currently out there come with 32 and 64GB varieties and in a number of colours (the new Touch is only available in silver). So is this an iPod Touch for the people? A budget busting device to restore Apple’s lead in a flagging sector?

The answer to the first question is yes. All those sacrifices mean that the new Touch costs just US$229, a good US$50 less than the current 32GB touch. On the other hand, you could pick up a 32GB version of the 4th generation Touch for around the same price.

That means it’s unlikely this stripped out Touch will save the iPod as a worthwhile device. After all, if price is your issue, you can get a slightly older Touch and if you’re not interested in the extra features of the more conventional Touch, well you can pick up a current generation 16GB iPod Nano for a hell of a lot less.

One thing it does show however is that Apple is willing to make budget versions of its high-end devices. Expect fresh rumours of a budget iPhone to surface.

You can grab the new iPod Touch from Apple’s online store now, with retailers set to start stocking it tomorrow.