You just have to love the iPod packaging. The box says it all when it comes to presentation. The 30GB iPod comes in a cube box that is white and black all around. Slide the surrounding cover off of the box and you’ll find a very nice packaging system for the iPod. The interior box opens up down the middle like a clamshell to reveal the iPod and it’s accessories.

On the right hand side is the iPod, cables and AC adapter while the CD and various accessories are on the left hand side of the packaging. All of the various components are nicely wrapped with plastic wrap. However do be careful with the iPods’ surface. It seems easier than ever to scratch it up so make sure to keep the iPod nicely covered in either the included pouch or carrying case. I scratched up the front of the iPod on the very first day of usage because I forgot to bring the carrying case. *sigh*

The New Look

One of the major changes that Apple made to the iPod was the new physical look to the device. Gone are the buttons that surround the wheel – instead we get touch buttons that line up below the screen. There is still a select button in the center of the wheel but that’s also gone the way of the touch button format. There are no moving parts on the Apple iPod now though you also lose the tactile feedback that comes from pressing a real button. Apple attempts to compensate for that by providing a “click” sound effect when it detects pressure on the buttons. This still isn’t the same as the feeling of a button being depressed. (of course this clicking noise has been around for some time now). I honestly do find it somewhat disconcerting when using the new buttons because I really don’t know if my touch was registered by the iPod sometimes.

The new iPod

The iPod is also thinner and lighter than previous models though it isn’t as dramatic with the 30GB model. I personally found the weight and size of the 2nd generation iPod just right so making it even smaller isn’t that important to me. However those wanting a lighter thinner device will be well pleased with the new models.

The iPod from behind	From the side

The LCD has a new backlight for better visibility in low light situations. When the backlight is activated, the text on the buttons lights up red and the screen is of course backlit. The red light is actually pretty cool looking in the dark – somewhat devilish in appearance.

Backlight in action