iPod 3rd Gen (Late 2009)

The iPod touch 3rd Generation (Late 2009) models—note that they lack 3G networking—were promoted with a strong focus on gaming, moving away from the "iPhone without a phone" pitch of earlier models. Still, they offered much of the iPhone 3GS's functionality, excluding the "phone," mobile networking (3G/EDGE), A-GPS, digital compass, and camera.

Though initially sold as a single lineup with 8, 32, and 64 GB options, the 8 GB model was different. The 32 GB and 64 GB versions, while externally identical to the 2nd Gen, had internal components more aligned with the iPhone 3GS, boasting "50% faster performance" and OpenGL ES 2.0 support for enhanced graphics (thanks to the same 800 MHz Samsung ARM processor as the iPhone 3GS). These higher-capacity models also fully supported iOS 4 and iOS 5, which the 8 GB model did not.

Like the 2nd Gen, the 3rd Gen models featured a 3.5" 320x480 multi-touch display, accelerometer, ambient light sensor, and 802.11b/g Wi-Fi (with 802.11n hardware capability).

In addition to better performance, the 32 GB and 64 GB models added Voice Control and the "VoiceOver" screen reader, and shipped with the same "Earphones with Remote and Mic" as the iPhone 3GS. Battery life was estimated by Apple at 30 hours for music and 6 hours for video.

The 3rd generation iPod touch, specifically the 32GB and 64GB models, was a powerhouse in its day. Released in 2009, it was essentially an iPhone 3GS without the phone, offering a significant performance boost over its predecessor. Reviewers praised its speed, which made gaming and app usage a much smoother experience. The inclusion of Voice Control was a nice touch, adding a new layer of convenience. The device's design remained sleek and pocketable, and the App Store support made it an incredibly versatile device. However, the lack of a camera was a major point of criticism, especially since the cheaper iPod nano had one. The 8GB model, which didn't receive the same internal upgrades, was a source of confusion and a blemish on an otherwise excellent product. For those who could afford the higher capacity models, the 3rd Gen iPod touch was the ultimate portable media player, a true glimpse into the future of mobile computing.