New iPods Expected To Launch Alongside iPhone 5 This Week

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept. 6, 2012 — -- It's already widely known: Apple will take the stage on Wednesday, Sept. 12 to unveil its next iPhone, or what many believe will be called the iPhone 5. But the new iPhone won't be the only product Apple introduces: it will also debut new iPods, according to the rumors.

Various technology sites and blogs report that Apple will introduce two to three iPods this week, including a new iPod shuffle, new iPod nano, and a new iPod Touch.

Much of the reporting comes from 9to5Mac.com. The site's editor Mark Gurman reports that the new iPod shuffle won't get much of an overhaul, but will be $49 and come in a couple of more colors. The new iPod Nano has been rumored to be slightly taller than the current generation.

The iPod Touch is rumored to get a bit more of an update, with a redesigned body. iMore's Rene Ritchie reports that it will feature a larger 4-inch display similar to the one rumored to be used on the iPhone 5. It also might use the new dock connector that has been rumored on the iPhone 5. The new iPod Touches will run iOS 6, Apple's forthcoming operating system, which includes Facebook integration, new Maps, and an updated Safari browser.

Many of the sources believe the iPods will be on sale this week or next. The iPhone 5 is anticipated to launch on Friday, Sept. 21. Apple is also expected to hold another event in October to announce a smaller version of the iPad. In summary, there are a lot of Apple products coming in time for the holiday season.

Apple's CEO Tim Cook announced refreshes to the iPod line up last year at the same event. The Sept. 12 Apple event begins at 10 a.m. PT. ABC News will be at the event and liveblogging the announcements.