Minutes ago, Apple updated its popular line of media players.  As he often does, Steve Jobs had “one more thing” to add to the end of his keynote.  Apple has added a video camera to the iPod Nano.  He specifically compared it to the $149.99 4 GB Flip digital camera.

The new iPod Nano is priced at $149 for 8 GB (twice the capacity of the Flip) and $179 for 16 GB.  The highest capacity Flip comes in at 8 GB for $199.  The iPod Nano doesn’t film in high-definition, but its resolution is the same as the standard definition Flips (640 x 480).

Video can be edited using iPhoto on the Mac (no mention of iMovie) or using photo software on the PC.

The iPod Nano is also smaller than the Flip and has a bigger screen.

So, why could the new iPod Nano be a game changer for the classroom?  Many classrooms and schools have purchased Flip video cameras to use in digital storytelling or other projects, which is great.  However, the Flip is only a video camera.  The iPod Nano offers the same features as the Flip (with double the capacity) for the same price and it can also play other digital media files.  Using iTunes, the iPod Nano can be loaded with a wealth of content from iTunes U or with podcasts from around the world.  So when the class isn’t using the iPod to shoot video, they can use it to access free content from MIT, Standford, Concordia Seminary, or access podcasts to help them with foreign language skills, history, or literature.

The new iPod Nano is a great way to bring the power of video and free, on-demand multimedia content into your classroom.