iPod touch reaches FCC with new details

In sync with the launch of the fourth-generation iPod touch, the FCC has posted Apple's filing for approval in the US. The shots show that the iPod touch manages to have a completely internal antenna despite the lack of the black plastic covering from the back. It also notes that the antenna has an insulator to reduce interference, though this is more likely to be for internal interference since the steel back isn't known to be used for reception.

Internal photos also provide some early insight into the components used for the new iPod, although without expert identification some of them are unknown. The A4 processor is self-evident, but it also shows RAM made by Hynix and a companion "Apple" chipset. The second custom-made chip may be a companion chip for the A4, such as a southbridge that attaches interfaces, or something that provides a non-wireless task such as audio.

The battery appears to be the same size or slightly larger versus the outgoing iPod despite the slimmer dimensions.

More information should be forthcoming once the new model ships next week and gives sites such as iFixit an opportunity to dissect the player. Many of the components should be borrowed from the iPhone 4, including the 512MB of RAM, 802.11n Wi-Fi networking and front (though not back) camera.

Antenna is at the very bottom with a 3M insualtor.

by MacNN Staff