Apple announces global iPod mini launch

The global launch of the 4GB mp3 player had been delayed from earlier this year, because Hitachi couldn't manufacture the hard drives fast enough. The iPod mini had already experienced success across the pond, with it being all over eBay, and many shops out of stock.

Apple exec Greg Joswiak reckons there could still be a shortfall, and recommends "people get in line early" - but he would say that, wouldn't he? He told the BBC "supply will keep up with demand by September."

Of course, the iPod mini is in for some competition - Sony and iRiver are now big players in the market, with Sony launching a new-generation 20GB mp3 walkman, selling for £55 cheaper then the 40GB iPod.

However, Joswiak is confident that the iPod is still a leader and will remain so. He said Sony's boasting of holding 3,000 more mp3s than the best iPods was unfair, since Sony were considering mp3s ripped in a much lower bitrate.

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