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iPod Touch 1.1.3 upgrade (now with $28 up-upgrade!)

, posted: 16-Jan-2008 11:50

This morning, with all the buzz about the new Macbook Air, Time Capsule and all that, I thought that I would take the plunge into the iPod touch 1.1.3 software upgrade.

I was utterly dissappointed in the fact that Web Clips wasn't part of the 'free' upgrade, and that I had to pay NZD$27.99 for it and for a whole list of stuff.

Here is a shot of what the software update looks like to buy the up-upgrade from the iTunes Store:



(I obviously took out my account name.)

I bought it. And although it's terribly expensive in terms of having 5 apps, the feature to move icons and have Web Clips, it's still worth it in my terms (unless someone gets to unlock the up-upgrade for free, which should come soon).

Here is how iTunes thinks of my iPod Touch:



... Software Version: 1.1.3 (with Software Upgrade) - duh... I upgraded and upgraded again (does that count as 1.1.3.1?)

Not sure how you'll enjoy yours, but I'm certainly enjoying the $28 dollars of value I'm getting from my iPod Touch.

BTW: iPod Touches have been reduced in price to $449 (8GB), $599 (16GB). Thank God that I brought one on special for $449. Also, new iPods already have the functionality preinstalled. Damn.

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Comment by Mike, on 18-Jan-2008 08:42 , user id: )

I know i got off cheaper than you in both count's ($20 for the upgrade and $399 for the system) but it boggles my mind as to why the would charge for something like this. I mean microsoft doesn't charge for updates, and i'm also fortunate enough to have a Nintendo Wii, and their new programs and functionality are alway free or free for a limited time. I'm going to wait a little bit, believe me it's taking every fiber of my being, to see if the drop the price, or release it as free.


Author's note by manhinli, on 18-Jan-2008 08:54 , user id: 31860)

That's what everyone is talking about. Having been charged to such an update that should have already existed. Now new iPods come preinstalled with it.

I (along with others who paid) hope that Apple clear their minds and refund us.


Comment by Trkstr, on 24-Jan-2008 13:29 , user id: )

Just wondering:
how does the maps application work in new zealand? Does it need some kind of wifi connection to download the maps? I vaguely recall steve jobs saying during the keynote that you don't need any wifi connections for the maps to work.

Is there any support at present for new zealand maps and locations?

I'm keen to get the upgrade also.


Comment by Steve Lawrence, on 24-Jan-2008 13:37 , user id: )

The maps app works incredibly well in New Zealand. You get access to the same maps and satellite imagery as you'll find on Google Earth or maps.google.com, plus the ability to search for businesses (which I didn't realise until I'd had it for about a month). For example, bring up Christchurch in Google Maps, do a search for 'The Warehouse' and it will bring up addresses and phone numbers for every store in town. It can also deal with ambiguous searches. For example, searching for 'Telecom' will bring up Telecom dealers like Orb, Dick Smiths, Noel Leeming etc. etc.

What Steve Jobs meant by not having to have wifi is that the maps cache themselves on the touch. For example, if you know you're going on a trip and want directions, just use the directions facility on the touch to plan out the route before you disconnect from the wifi hotspot. You can then use it throughout the journey even though you're not on the net any more.

Coupled with the mail app, which is arguably the best mail client I've ever used (even on a desktop), and the Touch is now undersold as an iPod - it's the best darn handheld device I've ever seen!


Author's note by manhinli, on 24-Jan-2008 13:39 , user id: 31860)

Well, Maps retrieves data off Google's servers, so it DOES need WiFi to operate. Therefore it does work in New Zealand.


Author's note by manhinli, on 24-Jan-2008 13:50 , user id: 31860)

Caching does work well, which is the greatest gripe with Maps. It only lasts for about 3 days before being cleared. Tried to use it for a week long trip - didn't work.

I'm typing this message on the iPod touch - its very easy (as long as you master the typing skills)


Author's note by manhinli, on 24-Jan-2008 13:52 , user id: 31860)

Oops.

"Caching doesn't work well." is what I meant to say.

Seems I haven't mastered the skills enough. :)


Comment by Trkstr, on 24-Jan-2008 21:33 , user id: 22872)

Sounds good.  Now i'm keen. :)

Time to upgrade.

See yal on the other side!


Author's note by manhinli, on 24-Jan-2008 21:36 , user id: 31860)

You better take on the offers right now, I remember Dick Smith is selling a 16GB for $570 and the 8GB for $420. Way cheaper than the already permanently-discounted prices I talked about at the end of my post!

Search for 'ipod touch' on www.dse.co.nz


Comment by Trkstr, on 24-Jan-2008 21:42 , user id: 22872)

jesus that's below cost..

i should know, i work there.. :P


Author's note by manhinli, on 24-Jan-2008 21:48 , user id: 31860)

You lucky thing... so do you get discounts off already-discounted stuff and/or cheaper stuff in general?


Comment by Trkstr, on 24-Jan-2008 21:54 , user id: 22872)

Nah :P
slightly cheaper stuff in general.
But if i were to purchase a 16gb ipod touch based on the staff discount scheme, i would have to pay about $630.  $570 for a 16gb is such a low price!


Comment by Trkstr, on 24-Jan-2008 22:04 , user id: 22872)

Does the 'locate' function in the map work in new zealand ?


Author's note by manhinli, on 24-Jan-2008 22:05 , user id: 31860)

Nope


Comment by jackson, on 23-Feb-2008 11:56 , user id: )

Personally speaking, I am outraged that Apple is charging early buyers of the iPod Touch $20 for a system update that ought to be free.

While I understand Apple's decision to charge money for the new applications the new $20 "application pack" also includes a SYSTEM UPDATE in the form of the home page editing, web clips, and lyrics features. All of these are updates to the currently existing iPod Touch software and NOT new applications, which means that they ought to be free to all users of the iPod Touch.

Adding insult to injury these applications are all hidden in the 1.1.3 system update, a whopping 104.4mb file that all users must download if they want to fix bugs in the system. These applications can only be used when you pay Apple $20 to "unlock" them, but even if you decide not to buy them they stay on your iPod taking up precious space that could be used for songs, videos, or photos.

Apple is normally wonderful when it comes to providing system support and updates, but having them shaft early adopters and loyal fans like this is offensive and shows that Apple has absolutely no regard for the iPod Touch community.

You can leave Apple direct feedback here:
http://www.apple.com/feedback/ipodtouch.html

You can also sign this petition:
http://www.petitiononline.com/freeappi/petition.html


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James Li
Auckland
New Zealand





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