Removing the LCD.

One of the most exciting features of the new Nano is what covers the LCD: real glass.

Earlier iPod Nanos have been incredibly durable. Hopefully, the same will be true of this iPod, even with a glass screen covering. We certainly appreciate the addition of real glass; it's nice to see some of the enhancements from Apple's larger and more expensive devices make it to the Nano.

Fortunately, the glass is separate from the casing. In fact, nothing but the iPod's internals hold the glass in place on the casing.

The front of the glass is curved to match the front of the iPod. The glass is about .7 mm thick on the edges, and 1.7 mm thick in the middle.

The new LCD is actually almost exactly the same size as the 3rd Gen Nano LCD. The only difference is that instead of a resolution of 320x240, you now get 240x320.

The battery isn't very large, but then again, neither is the iPod. Apple claims this slim battery will keep the Nano playing music for 24 hours.

The top of the logic board. We're working on identifying the chips.

The main processor appears to be an Apple-branded ARM processor manufactured by Samsung with DRAM on-package. Based on the date code, this processor was manufactured in early July of 2008.

Markings on the main processor: 339S0049 ARM, K4X56323PI-KGC4, YWE025QH 825, APL0278A00, N1B2HOP 0831

Apple-logo chip above the processor: 338S0687-AC, 08288HBB

Small black chip below the main processor: 33DL, 2827

Shiny Apple chip in the bottom right: 338S055C, 189N0824, SGP

The other side, dominated by the 8 GB Toshiba flash chip.

On the chip: TH58NVG6D1DLA87, U20516, JAPAN, 0826MAE

Unfortunately, the battery is soldered to the logic board. Replacing the Nano's battery isn't going to be easy.

All the parts. The main board is incredibly small, especially considering all the features packed into this iPod.