The last time that Apple updated its iconic music player was way back in 2012. Two years later, with the advent of integrated tech in smartphones, some observers were saying that Apple's iPod touch was as good as gone. However, Apple decided to surprise everyone by rolling out a fresher and greatly-improved iPod touch. 

Most of the improvements have to do with Apple deciding to use the A8 processor for the music player, the same chip used for the company's current smartphone flagships, the iPhone 6 and 6 Plus. This makes the new iPod touch much more responsive in terms of user interface and app processing. Partnered with a 1 GB RAM inside, the music player works fluidly. 

In terms of design, the iPod touch retains its iconic looks, although there are a few changes as well. Apple decided to do away with the loop strap option, and added new color versions that bring the music player's color choices to six. Users can pick red, pink, blue; silver, gold, or space gray. Meanwhile, the device still has the same 4-inch display with 1136 x 640 pixel resolution.

On the back, the new iPod touch sports a much powerful camera. Apple decided to upgrade the previous one's 5-MP camera, and took a leaf off the iPhone 5s' book. The 2015 iPod touch features an 8-MP main shooter, and like the previous iPhone, sports the same shooting modes like Burst and Slo-Mo and is capable of recording 720p video. 

Apple also decided to update the firmware to its most recent version, and so the new iPod touch ships out with iOS 8.4 right out of the box. In addition, the music player comes native with the Apple Music service to take advantage of the device's music-player feature.