Apple has made some significant progress breaking down corporate walls and establishing iOS mobile devices like the iPhone, iPad, and even Mac OS X as viable business platforms. One Apple device that isn't generally thought of as a business tool at all, though, is the iPod. But, with a few tweaks the iPod Nano could be a much more capable device.

Samsung's Galaxy Player 4.0 and 5.0 are the Android answer to Apple's iPod Touch, which has long been the king of portable media players. Of the two, the Galaxy Player 5.0 ($US240 as of January 4, 2012) is a particularly attractive device for anyone who wishes to remain within the realm of Android for music, video, and apps, but who doesn't want to pay for monthly services with an Android phone. Offering specs similar to its iOS rival, the Galaxy Player 5.0 makes a gallant attempt at beating the iPod Touch at its own game, but falls short in audio quality.

Apple has instituted a replacement program for first-generation iPod nanos, which may contain flawed batteries that could overheat and cause damage.

It's finally official: Microsoft will no longer be producing Zune HD music and video players.

During the company's press event Tuesday at its Cupertino headquarters, Phil Schiller, Apple's senior vice-president of worldwide product marketing, announced updated versions of the iPod nano and iPod touch.

Microsoft will make no more Zune music players, building its future music strategy on applications incorporated in its Windows Phone and Xbox platforms, the company has confirmed.

Apple's iPhone event is about more than just new hardware. The company is at a crossroads, with Steve Jobs out as CEO and with big changes coming to iOS via iCloud. Apple watchers will want to pay close attention, because whatever happens on Tuesday will have greater implications beyond the iPhone 5.

Deciphering Apple's intentions is even more challenging than figuring out the Kremlin's, though there's definitely some similarity. Elsewhere, the Thunderbolt Display is ripped to shreds, iTunes movies surface around the world, and is it finally time to bid adieu to some venerable Apple products? The remainders for Wednesday, September 28, 2011 promised themselves they wouldn't cry.

If the latest Apple rumor is true, a new iPod Touch should arrive in September.