Although, the saying goes, “imitation, is the sincerest form of flattery”, this is ridiculous. Bootleg 4GB iPod nano’s have been spotted in the PRC!
At a glance, they appear to adorn a similar form factor to the Apple iPod nano but upon closer inspection; it becomes obvious that it uses a 4-pin USB communication and charging port in contrast to Apple iPod nano’s Dock Connector. There are also two small screws, on the sides of the bootleg version, which we can only assume holds the device together. A small hoop is built into the metalic base, apparently, facilitating the use of a lanyard together with the device.
Although, there’s the semblance of a Clickwheel, similar to Apple iPod nano’s, its more ‘click’ than wheel. Users can only interface with the device by depressing on either directional area on the purported ‘Clickwheel’.
In addition, the audio output jack is located on the side of the device and the usual interface Lock slider that appears on the Apple iPod nano, functions as an On/Off switch on the bootleg version.
We’d like to be polite but there’s no other way to say it. The UI of the bootleg version, leaves a lot to be desired. Not only is it not easy on the eyes but its a total mystery to decipher.
The best bit? It doesn’t work on a Mac and at press time, we cannot confirm if it even works on a Windows-based PC.
The verdict?… Save your USD$25. Put it in your Apple iPod nano piggy bank until there’s enough. There’s no shortcut to innovation.