The iPod Touch 6th Generation failed to materialize on Tuesday, after predictions for its launch was made recently. Yet again, the possible release date for the fable device remains in question.
Last Friday, French-language iGen cited allegedly "reliable" sources as stating that the iPod Touch 6th Gen will be released on July 14.
Considering Apple's normal release cycle, this rumor seemed unrealistically optimistic from the beginning. Before new device reach stores, the Cuptertino-based tech giant often holds an unveiling ceremony. Also, the release date is usually announced as well. Hence, iGen's sources gave a release window that was simply too short to be considered seriously. The fact that release date rumors never seem to die suggests that there are still iPod lovers out there.
This begs the question why anyone would still want an iPod, considering that the series has sold poorly in recent years. For starters, there is a minority of users who appreciate having a device that can play music and games without having to be purchase a wireless service plan.
Parents may appreciate that the iPod offers children entertainment without exposure to potential harm from unmonitored internet access. Also, the iPod acts as a secondary device that frees up the family's primary mobile device for grownup use.
Unfortunately, current stocks of the fifth-generation iPod Touch appears to be drying up. For instance, GottaBeMobile reports that many Best Buy stores are running out on certain colors of iPod Touch. While the iPod Touch is still available at most Apple Stores, the online portion lists a 3-5 business day shipping time.
Officially, Apple does not acknowledge generational designations for the iPod Touch. Instead, the company prefers to tack on the word "new" to the device's original name. Fans take it upon themselves to hand out unofficial nicknames to avoid confusion. So the most current iPod Touch is referred to by users as the iPod Touch 5th Generation.
iPod Touch 6 Hangs in Existential Limbo
Previously, gossip circles had speculated that the next iPod would be featured at this year's WWDC conference. iPod fans were naturally disappointed when the iPod Touch 6th Generation was not amongst the Apple products showcased at the gathering.
Based on this development, it is looking less likely that Apple will be introducing the next iPod this year. The first generation iPod Touch was launched in 2007. Until 2009, Apple released one new iPod Touch each year. This practice stopped with the iPod Touch 5th Generation, which launched in 2012. Since then, Apple has not formally announced the next device in the iPod Touch lineup.
