Apple today introduced a completely revamped line of iPods at a special music-related media event. The new iPod sports a totally redesigned case, capacities of 10, 15 or 30GB, and a docking station with both FireWire and USB2 compatibility. From Apple:

Apple today introduced its third generation iPods, which hold up to 7,500 songs in a stunning enclosure that is lighter and thinner than two CDs. The new ultra-portable iPods feature completely solid-state "no moving parts" navigation wheel and buttons; an elegant new dock with audio out for fast and easy connection to your computer or stereo; an "On-The-Go" playlist so users can build a playlist right on their iPod; a customizable main menu so users can promote the features they use most often to their top level menu; and Appleis unique, patent pending Auto-Sync for automatically syncing your computeris music library with iPod.

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iPod is the only portable music player with Appleis patent pending Auto-Sync, an innovative feature that automatically downloads an entire digital music library into iPod and keeps it up-to-date whenever the iPod is plugged into a Mac or Windows PC. With Appleis new fast disk mode switching, iPod switches from Auto-Sync mode to music-player mode faster than ever before.

Building on the success of the original touch wheel, the new iPod is designed with a solid-state "no moving parts" navigation wheel and all touch buttons for enhanced sensitivity and precision over mechanical buttons. The buttons are backlit for easy operation in low light and continue to enable easy, one-handed operation. In addition to MP3, iPod now supports the industry-standard AAC audio format, providing higher quality sound in the same disk space. Whether at the gym, at work, in the car or at the airport, iPod puts 7,500 songs in your pocket?the equivalent of three weeks of continuous music without repeating a single song.

iPod features new customization options including the ability to move frequently used menu items to the main menu. Users also have the power to create an "On-The-Go" playlist and rate their music collection directly on their iPod, offering a new level of control whenever theyire away from their computer.

You can get more information about the new line of iPods at Appleis site. The new iPods will be available May 2nd for a price of US$299 (10GB), US$399 (15GB), or US$499 (30GB). Laser engraving will be available for US$19, and a USB2 cable for Windows users without a FireWire port will be available in June for US$19.