A Flash in the iPod

In a move that could have big implications for the storage and chip markets, Apple (AAPL Quote) will unveil a new flash memory-based iPod later this year, say analysts.

The company will soon replace its hard drive-based 4GB iPod mini with a flash memory-based version that has the same storage capacity, Nam Hyung Kim, an analyst with industry research firm iSuppli, says in a recent report.

A report this week from Deutsche Bank Securities analyst Ben Lynch says Apple is expected to have the device on store shelves in time for the holidays; Kim says Apple is expected to ship 3 million to 6 million of the devices in the second half of this calendar year. ...