www.chinaview.cn 2005-02-24 08:41:58
BEIJING, Feb. 24 (Xinhuanet)



Apple Computer Inc. unveiled its new generation of mini iPods on Wednesday, cutting the price of the current "iPod mini" model.

Apple Computer Inc. released new versions of its popular iPod digital music player Wednesday, cutting prices and expanding memory capacities.

The new four-gigabyte mini iPod is priced at 199 dollars while the six-gigabyte player, with 50 percent more storage, comes with a 249 dollar price-tag.

The battery life of the second-generation mini models has also been improved. The playback time on a single charge is now 18 hours, up from 8 hours of previous models.

"We've done very well, but we're not resting on our laurels," Joswiak said. "And we're going to continue to be very aggressive in this market."

"We believe some will view the changes in the iPod product line as negative," said Piper Jaffray. "Specifically, we expect to hear arguments that Apple is taking a hit to margins in reaction to competitive threats. We believe that Apple's changes to the product line are more offensive than defensive. Apple clearly holds the leadership position on this market and we believe these changes will widen the gap between Apple and potential competitors that are trying to chip away at iPod market share."

Apple shares rose $2.94, or 3.5 percent, to close at $88.23 in Wednesday trading on the Nasdaq Stock Market. Enditem

(Agencies)