I’ve read through some of the early iPod nano reviews and this post will be a small summary of what people seem to like, and dislike, about the new version. And the result is as expected when dealing with an Apple product; people generally like it. While we saw some complaints about the new form factor before the release, it now seems like people are accepting the new look and even embracing it. I personally think Apple did a great job and I can’t think of a better design, considering the large 2″ display.

While we’re at it, let’s talk some more about the display. It has a density of 204 PPI which is the highest of any iPod to date. As expected, all reviews so far agree to the fact that the display is very crisp and clear. It is also 65% brighter than the previous version. PC Magazine comments; “Video looks amazing on the nano. … Watching an episode of “The Office” was pure joy, and the gaming graphics also shine.” However, watching videos on such a small screen can still be a little hard on your eyes.

One of the biggest upgrades was Cover Flow and a nice looking split-screen interface. This new interface divides the screen in two, displaying a menu on the left and floating album covers on the right. While browsing photo albums, photos from you library are displayed instead. “It’s a nice look”, writes PC Magazine, though they think Cover Flow flows a lot smoother on nano’s bigger brothers, iPhone and iPod touch.

CNET noted a small but useful detail in this version of the nano. Apparently, music shuffle settings can now be accessed by pressing the center button four times at the Now Playing screen. This means we don’t have to go through menus to turn it off if we decide to do so. Nice detail by Apple, one I surely will be using when I get my hands on one of these.

This is just a first look at the new iPod nano and we’re going to see a lot more detailed reviews and comparisons later on. But even though it’s early, we are starting too see what the general opinion will be. CNET writes that “the little guy just seems irresistible” and I have no doubt that most future reviews will come to the same conclusion as PC Magazine, that it is…

“…the best-designed flash video player on the market in this price range.”

Via PC Magazine & CNET.
Suggested reading: iLounge, ZDNet, Neowin & Pocket-lint