Photo courtesy of Apple Computers/Arizona Daily Wildcat The new iPod comes ready for consumers to tune further out with options such as videos and plenty of storage space. Just think, next semester that guy texting in one hand will be able to hold this baby in the other hand, leaving him no hands with which to steer his bike.

Students at the UA find many ways to distract themselves from the daily mundane walks to their respective classes. In fact, it is rare to find a solo student without something attached to their ear as they cruise campus. Cell phones are by far the most popular, while students find one reason or another to have to call their best friend, mom, etc.

However, a new toy and distraction has exploded in popularity among students: the iPod. Now students are no longer forced to carry the ever-so-old and bulky Discman, worrying about skipping, scratching and other inconveniences. The iPod has created music in a sleek and trendy package, giving students one more reason not to have to talk to their peers as they stroll by them.

You might already have your iPod or iPod Mini, but this year is the time to upgrade. Apple has put out a new iPod device that not only lets you listen to your tunes as the original one does, but it also has features which enable you to load photos, TV shows and videos.

This hot item not only sounds a lot better but looks better, too. The new iPod is thinner and sleeker, making it that much easier to slip into your pocket as you sneak a listen during class.

The new iPod has a 30-gigabyte and 60 GB option to choose from. The 30 GB iPod carries 7,500 songs for a mere $299, while the 60 GB iPod carries double that, 15,000 songs, for $399. While downloading photos and your favorite TV shows such as "Lost" or "Desperate Housewives" might take up more memory, do you actually know of 15,000 songs? TV shows and videos can be downloaded in the same manner as songs are, off of iTunes, and cost $1.99 for an hourlong show.

It is always fun to see the array of pastel fluorescents that the iPod Mini offers, and while the new iPod does not have those options it does come in either white or black. Plus, this year Apple is offering up to two lines, or 27 characters, of engraving on the back of your iPod. See, now even electronics can be personal.

So while contemplating that special gift for parent, friend or loved one, why not give the gift of iPod? Or put it on your own wish list. You will be so enthralled with your new toy that you won't even have a chance to acknowledge that guy from some general education lecture last year.

The new iPod can be found at your local Apple store or online at http://store.apple.com with no additional shipping fee.